Honey, Ohrid pearls and carpets: souvenirs worth buying in North Macedonia

If you're planning a trip to North Macedonia, don't forget to bring home some fantastic souvenirs that capture the essence of the country. From handicrafts to homemade honey, there is a wide range of products and souvenirs to choose from.

We offer you the top 5 souvenirs worth bringing back from North Macedonia. News Bytes told you what makes them special.

Opinci shoes

It is a traditional North Macedonian shoe made from a single piece of leather that is folded and sewn together to create a simple shoe that is easy to put on. However, people no longer wear these handmade shoes, leading to the slow decline of this traditional craft. However, with some effort, it is still possible to find handmade leather shoes in places that specialize in it.

Carved wood products

In Macedonia, the ancient craft of deep wood carving has been preserved since the 12th century and is passed down from generation to generation. Throughout the country, you can find many small independent shops selling a variety of items made with deep wood carvings. The products are dedicated to historical events, religious themes and national monuments, and some even try to reflect the divine essence.

Macedonian honey

Macedonian honey is a delicious and high-quality natural product that is considered one of the best in the world. Macedonia's diverse flora and favorable climate provide bees with an excellent environment for producing honey with unique and rich flavors. Some of the most popular types of Macedonian honey are acacia, linden, chestnut and hazelnut. Each type has its own special flavor and aroma.

Macedonian carpets

Carpets are an important element in Macedonian homes and can often be found in every room, even in the kitchen. Traditional Macedonian carpets are a unique blend of Macedonian and Ottoman cultural motifs, reflecting the country's rich history as a crossroads of East and West. Their intricate patterns serve as a reminder of the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the region.

Ohrid pearls

Ohrid pearls are produced by two ancient families, the Filevi and the Talevi, who have been practicing this craft since the 1920s. The process of making these pearls remains a closely guarded secret to this day. The pearls are coated with a mysterious mixture of ingredients, and it takes at least eight layers of emulsion to reach the final shape.

Earlier, Travel Wise wrote about what colorful souvenirs to buy while traveling to Grenada and how to surprise your family.