Add a review about the fortress of King Samuel

Perhaps, there are no tourists who would have visited Ohrid and did not visit the fortress of King Samuel. This landmark of Macedonia, as a rule, one of the first is on the mandatory list of excursions, second only to the famous Ohrid lake. Once the mission of "bathing and cruising on the lake" is completed, tourists go to get acquainted with the fortress of King Samuel. The ancient construction is at the highest point of the city, therefore it is better to get to it together with other travelers on the organized bus. But more about this later.

The legendary fortress of Samuilova solid towers on the southern coast of the city. The fortress is worth visiting at least for the sake of magnificent landscapes, showing Ohrid in all its glory. From here you can see the ancient amphitheater and the church of St. Clement of Ohrid, as well as the stunning panoramas of the lake.

The best place to visit is the Samuil hardcore in the morning and the pre-hours. At this time, if you have a camera, brilliant pictures are guaranteed to you. But the view on the fortress is best removed in the evening, when the relief stone walls are illuminated by the rays of hundreds of street lamps.

Recently, archaeologists near the fortress of King Samuel have discovered precious ornaments that are much older than the fortress itself. Excavations continue even now, but they do not prevent tourists from visiting the Ohrid landmark.

According to historians, the fortress was erected in the 10th century by the order of the Bulgarian king Samuel . It happened because the medieval ruler wanted to make the capital of his state from Ohrid . And so that it could reliably be located and governed, Samuel ordered to build a defensive structure . So in Ohrid there appeared a fortress with a length of three km and almost with two dozen watchtowers . At that time the fortress served as an original with the gates to the city . Actually, even now the main historical sights of Ohrid can be seen somewhere nearby .

King Samuel's fortress

The fortress of King Samuel has reached us in excellent condition, but this is largely due to reconstruction, which have been repeatedly conducted here. By the way, not so long ago archeologists discovered precious jewelry, the age of which far exceeds the fortress itself. Excavations continue even now, but they do not prevent tourists from visiting the fortress.

From the once impregnable fort, the walls and remains of the foundations of old buildings are well preserved. However, and this is quite enough to assess the size and strategic position of Samuilovaya firmament. By the way, after the recent reconstruction, the walls look very good. Now, on steep staircases and dark passages, where warriors were hiding in the olden days, tourists are walking leisurely.

Here and there in the fortress territory are the remains of old foundations. There is a theory that in place of the modern fortress there was one more ancient fortification structure. It is likely that it belonged to the 4th century AD and was erected under the Macedonian King Philip.

Behind the walls of the Samuilova Trough there is a feeling that you are in the zone of operating archaeological excavations. In fact, excavations here have long been tied up, but the reconstruction works from time to time pass. In particular, restorers managed to "patch" the holes in the walls and restore some buildings. The tourist route through the territory of the fortress is marked by good paths and equipped with handrails.


Near the stronghold of Samuel (so called the locals) is a medieval amphitheater. The ancient scene is open for excursions at any time.

Another reason to visit the fortress of King Samuel is an incredible view of Ohrid and the lake, which opens to all who come here. As it was said above, it is best to get to the fortress by the tourist bus, the good of those wishing to visit this landmark of Macedonia is always enough (especially in the season). Tourists here without problems also deliver Ohrid taxi drivers. The cost of the trip for the carriers is better to be specified in advance (they may wind up during the calculation, especially during the season) and at the same time agree on a return journey.

If you still decide to get to the fortress of King Samuel yourself, be guided by the following route. First you need to move along the central street Boulevard Tourist, then turn to the street called Abas Emin and go on it to the end. Further to the walls of the fortress a rather massive path rises. Visit the magnificent monument of Macedonian history can be completely free at any time.

In summer, festivals, parties and creative events are held on the territory of the fortress. It is planned that with the restoration of the fortress its cultural significance will only be strengthened. It is likely that in the near future in the walls of the ancient beauty will be held grandiose events with the participation of world stars.

There are several dozen comfortable hotels, bars and restaurants in the vicinity of the fortress. Admittedly, the tourist infrastructure of this area is more than remarkable. Yes, and the natural beauty of the place is very indicative, ideal for a memorable vacation.

Please note that at the intersection with the street of Ilindensk should take a little to the right. The fortress of King Samuel is at a distance of 1, 3 km from the street Bulevar Tourist.