Veles
Understand
History
Under Ottoman rule, Veles was named Köprülü. Following World War II, it was named Titov Veles in honour of Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito. In 1996, several years after Macedonian independence, "Titov" was dropped from the name.The city briefly received international attention after it was revealed that a group of teenagers in Veles were producing fake news related to the 2016 US presidential election as a way of generating income.
Get in
Veles is a relatively large transport hub, with excellent road and rail connections. It is close to the country's main international airport.
By bus
Veles Bus StationVeles's bus station is in the city center, on the east side of the river. The city is well-connected to neighbouring cities.
By car
Veles is on the international highway, E-75, which connects Central Europe to the Aegean Sea. The city lies 55 km (33 mi) southeast from Skopje.By train
Veles Railway StationVeles is served by a railway station on North Macedonia's main north-south rail line, running from Niš in Serbia to Thessaloniki. The station is in the north of the city, on the west side of the river.
By plane
Skopje Airport, the country's main airport, is about 36 km (21.6 mi) north of Veles.Get around
See
Clock TowerThe defining feature of the city skyline. It was built in the first half of the 18th century as a watchtower for Ottomans. Towards the end of the 18th century, the tower was converted into a city clock. It is on the left bank of the Vardar, on 8th of September Street.
Church of St PantaleonThis three-aisle basilica-type church was built in 1840 by Andrej Damjanov. It is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Povardarie. It sits on a high terrace above the town, making it dominant in the skyline and a good place for views of Veles. The interior of the church is richly decorated with arches, columns, and frescoes.
Kočo Racin Memorial HouseKočo Racin was a Macedonian revolutionary and poet, who is considered a founder of modern Macedonian literature. Established in 1962, it showcases the life and work of the Veles native. The building itself was constructed in the traditional style.
Kosturnica MemorialThe large memorial is built in the shape of a flower, symbolizing a German World War II helmet, broken in four pieces - a symbol of the defeat of fascism. It is situated at an elevation above the northeastern side of town. There is also a museum about the history of Veles during that period.
Monastery of St DemetriusIt's a couple kilometers south of town. The monastery church was built in the 14th century by King Stefan Dušan. The Byzantine-style church has a bell tower built into its western side.
Church of St John the BaptistThe oldest church in Veles, St John the Baptist was likely constructed in the 13th century. It is a small church built of stone, about 100 m north of the Monastery of St Demetrius.
Do
Lake MladostThis artificial lake north of the city is one of its major recreational areas. Hotel Romantik is on its northwestern shore.
Sleep
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phone: +389 43 212 223address: Skopski PatQuite a decent option on a E-75 Belgrade-Athens highway. Rooms equipped with AC, TV, good size fridge, private bathroom. Friendly and helpful staff.
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address: Ezero MladostRooms come with AC, private bathroom and a balcony. Hotel has a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Wi-Fi.
Go next
Solunska Glava peakOne of the highest mountain peaks in North Macedonia, 2 540 m height. Accommodation is available at the mountain house Ceples.
- Stobi - the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia Salutaris dating from 197 BC. The surviving mosaics and other archaeological finds are of exceptional value.