The coolest thing I saw in nature this week was the incredible boulder fields at the cultural-historical site of Markovi Kuli. I had the chance to run there with friends, weaving through enormous granite boulders and the ruins of an ancient fortress high above the city of Prilep. According to local legend, this was once the home of Prince Marko, a 14th-century ruler known for his strength and heroic adventures. The giant boulders were formed millions of years ago when volcanic rock slowly cracked and weathered into the massive formations you see today. According to local legend, Prince Marko was so strong that he could throw enormous boulders across the landscape. People say the giant rocks scattered around Markovi Kuli were left behind from his battles or where he practiced his strength. While scientists explain the rocks through geology and erosion over millions of years, the story of Prince Marko gives the landscape a sense of myth and adventure.
North Macedonia is home to some amazing natural places. Matka Canyon near the capital city has steep cliffs, hidden monasteries and caves that scientists are still exploring. Lake Ohrid is even more incredible — it is one of the oldest lakes in the world and home to hundreds of species that exist nowhere else on Earth.
