Debar

Debar is a city in the very western part of western North Macedonia, right on the border with Albania. Debar has about 14,000 people in its city limits, with a total population of under 20,000 in Debar Municipality which includes 17 surrounding villages. The city sits on the north shore of Lake Debar, an artificial lake formed by damming where the Black Drin and Radika rivers meet. Debar is also a gateway into Mavrovo National Park from the park's southern boundary.

By car
A border crossing from Albania exists just north of the city in the village of Spas. Within Macedonia, Debar can be reached from the east or south via highway R1201.

See
Most of the sights of interest of the Debar area lie in its surrounding villages.

Rajčica
Rajčica is a village immediately adjacent to Debar. Situated at the eastern entrance to Debar, it has over 100 residents.

Further afield
The villages of Debar Municipality, set in mountainous scenery, are home to places of interest, particularly churches and monasteries. Gari and Osoj, on the slopes of Stogovo Mountain, are particularly known for their architecture as villages inhabited by Mijaks, a group of Macedonians known for their building skills. Gorno and Dolno Kosovrasti are on Dešat Mountain above the Radika River, with the latter being at a lower elevation.

Do
The Balkan state of North Macedonia caters to those who want some pampering on their holiday. Lap up the thermal mineral spas in the Debar region which have been proven to provide medical benefits.

Nearby
Within Centar Župa Municipality, bordering Debar to the south:
 * The village of Kodžadžik, about 21 km (12.6 mi) south of Debar, was once the home of Turkish Republic founder Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's parents. Their home was reconstructed and now serves as a memorial museum. The family house was built in the 19th century in this mountain village.
 * The Church of the Immaculate Mother of God in Dolno Melničani was built in 1884. It is a three-nave church mostly made of stone with a front porch and a separate bell tower. The village sits on a mountainside across Lake Debar from the city of Debar.

Go next

 * St. Jovan Bigorski - this monastery is dedicated to St. John the Forerunner. It was made in the 18th century and includes beautiful frescos and icons in Rostuse. It is located about 20 minutes north of Debar. It is a must-see when visiting Macedonia.