January 1, 2025 • 15 mins
This episode of the Global Treasures Podcast will cover the Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region, located in Albania. Known as having one of the deepest, oldest lakes in Europe and beautiful Byzantine churches, we discuss the history, travel tips and more.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Abigail (00:00):
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries, where
culture and nature intertwine tocreate something truly extraordinary.
That's the beauty of UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail, and this is GlobalTreasures, the podcast that covers
(00:22):
the history, travel tips, andlegends surrounding one of the 1, 223
World Heritage Sites each episode.
These places have been identified ashaving universal cultural or natural
significance that is so exceptionalthat it transcends national boundaries
(00:43):
and is of importance to present
and future generations.
Welcome to season two, wherewe'll explore the 45 sites that
UNESCO added in 1979 together.
Thank you for listening to the podcast.
We appreciate all of your support, and youcan continue to support us by subscribing
(01:04):
at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean.
You can also follow uson TikTok and Facebook.
Imagine a landscape where water and landengage in an internal, mesmerizing dance.
Where each stone, each ripple, each breathof wind, Carries a millennia of stories.
(01:26):
Close your eyes and transport yourself tothe Ohrid region, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site that defies simple description.
An extraordinary place where naturalwonder and human history intertwine
in the most profound ways imaginable.
A place that draws over300, 000 visitors annually.
(01:51):
This is a journey that will take usacross the borders of southwestern North
Macedonia and eastern Albania througha landscape that is at once a living
museum, a biological treasure and atestament to the remarkable resilience
of both nature and human civilization.
(02:11):
To truly understand the Ohridregion, we must first dive deep
into its geological history, a storythat begins millions of years ago.
Lake Ohrid isn't just a body of water.
It's a liquid time capsule thathas preserved life in ways that
continues to astound scientists.
(02:32):
Geologically speaking, this is part of theNorth South Tectonic Basin that tells a
complex story of Earth's transformation.
Most lakes fill rapidly with sediment,but Ohrid has defied these odds through
a remarkable combination of extraordinarydepth and continuing tectonic subsidence.
(02:55):
The lake's origins date back to thePleistocene period, with sediments
ranging from 3 to 5 million years old.
Imagine a landscape inconstant, subtle motion.
The lake sits within anactive graven system.
A seismogenic landscape where the Earth'scrust is literally being pulled apart.
(03:16):
On February 18, 1911, theregion experienced a significant
earthquake, a magnitude 6.
6 tremor that shook houses butmiraculously caused no loss of life.
The hydraulic system of Lake Ohridis nothing short of miraculous.
Its water comes from multiple sources.
(03:38):
Underground springs on the easternshore provide nearly 50 percent of the
inflow, rivers contribute about 25%, anddirect precipitation makes up the rest.
But perhaps most fascinating is itsconnection to nearby Lake Prespa.
Located just 10 kilometers away, ora little over 6 miles, and 500 feet
(04:03):
higher in altitude, Prespa transferswater to Ohrid through underground
karstic channels A hidden, subterraneanriver system that speaks to the
complex hydrology of the region.
Lake Ohrid is a biological marvelthat challenges our understanding of
evolution and ecological preservation.
(04:26):
With a maximum depth of 945 feetand covering 138 square miles, it's
the deepest lake in the Balkans.
But its true significance lies inits Extraordinary biodiversity.
Imagine water so pure that you can seeup to 22 meters deep, a transparency
(04:48):
that reveals a world of unique lifeforms.
The lake hosts over 200 endemicspecies, making it comparable to
legendary biological hotspots.
Like Lake Baikal and Lake Tanganyika.
17 endemic fish species callthese waters home, including
(05:10):
the remarkable Ohrid trout.
68 species of freshwater snails inhabitthe lake basin, with over 73 percent of
them found nowhere else on the planet.
From microscopic algae tocomplex aquatic creatures.
Lake Ohrid is a living laboratoryof evolutionary processes.
(05:32):
The surrounding wetlands playa crucial role in maintaining
this delicate ecosystem.
The Studenchishte marsh, despitefacing significant threats from urban
development, remains a vital habitat.
It's a buffer that prevents lake. etrophication, and provides a home
(05:52):
for relict plants and endemic species.
The human story of Ohridis equally captivating.
Near the Lin Peninsula in Albania,archaeologists have uncovered one
of Europe's oldest pile dwellingsettlements, a site over 8, 500 years old.
(06:12):
This remarkable discovery predatessimilar Swiss settlements by more
than 2, 000 years, and providescrucial insights into the spread of
agricultural practices across Europe.
The town of Ohrid itself is a livinghistorical manuscript, built primarily
between the 7th and 19th centuries,It's one of Europe's oldest settlements.
(06:36):
Here, you'll find theoldest Slav monastery, St.
Pantelejmon, and a collection of morethan 800 Byzantine style icons, dating
from the 11th to the 14th centuries.
Historically, This was a criticalcrossroads of civilizations.
Its proximity to the ancient Romanroute Via Egnatia connected Durres to
(07:00):
Thessaloniki and Constantinople, makingit a significant communication corridor.
Seven early Christian basilicas,dating from the 4th to 6th centuries,
stand as a testament to theregion's rich religious heritage.
With their intricate mosaic floors, Anddecorative features, telling stories
(07:24):
of faith and artistic expression.
Yet, like many extraordinarynatural sites, the Ohrid region
faces significant challenges.
Tourism, urban development, and climatechange threaten its delicate balance.
The lake has experienced a three foldincrease in phosphorus concentration
(07:45):
over the past century, potentiallydisrupting its unique ecosystem.
Climate projections are concerning.
Scientists warn that without a 50percent reduction in phosphorus input,
the lake's deep waters may lose theiroxygen content within the next 50 years.
(08:05):
This would be catastrophic for theendemic species that have called these
waters home for millions of years.
Conservation efforts areongoing and critical.
The area has been designated a RamsarWetland of International Importance,
recognizing its global significance.
International organizations,local communities, And scientific
(08:28):
researchers are working together toprotect this extraordinary landscape,
understanding that its preservationis a global responsibility.
For scientists, Lake Ohrid functions as anatural laboratory of unprecedented value.
Its sediment cores provide an archive ofregional history spanning an incredible 1.
(08:52):
2 million years.
Researchers have used these coresto study everything from the birth
of European agriculture to regionalclimate shifts and biological evolution.
The lake has provided thefirst empirical evidence of
niche based assembly processes.
In a natural system demonstratingthe dynamic equilibrium
(09:16):
of isolated ecosystems.
It's offered insight into tree cover,soil erosion, and flora composition
during glacier and interglacial periods.
And here's a couple of tidbitsthat will make you smarter
than your average tourist.
Although you're already smarter becauseyou're listening to this podcast.
(09:36):
Did you know that one of themethane lakes on Titan, Jupiter's
moon, is named after Lake Ohrid?
Or that the lake supports hundreds ofthousands of wintering water birds,
including rare species like the Dalmatianpelican and eastern imperial eagle?
The Ohrid region is more thana destination, from its crystal
(09:58):
clear waters to its ancient shores.
From prehistoric settlements toByzantine monasteries, this is a place
that reminds us of the intricate,beautiful complexity of our planet.
So while it's more than a destination,let's talk a bit about what to
do if this is your destination.
Let's start with how to get there.
(10:19):
If you're flying in fromanother country, Ohrid St.
Paul the Apostle Airportin North Macedonia is 9
kilometers or a little over 5.
5 miles from Ohrid.
Tirana Airport is your best optionif flying into Albania, but it
is two and a half hours away.
From the airport, you can take ataxi, rent a car, or take a bus.
(10:43):
Apparently, public transportationis quite inexpensive.
In terms of fees, You will payto park, but walking the grounds,
such as the monastery, is free.
There are numerous detours ofOhrid that depart from Skopje,
which is the capital of Macedonia.
Matka Canyon is also a scenic spotwhere you can book a boat ride that
(11:07):
will take you to the Vrelo Cave.
Around Lake Ohrid specifically,Hiking around the lake, kayaking,
and even paragliding over thelake are popular activities.
This is also an idealspot for bird watching.
If you're seeking other thingsto do while in the area,
Skopje also has the old bazaar.
(11:28):
One of the largest in Europe.
This bazaar was the center of tradefor the city since the 12th century.
And these cobbled streets hold everything,from market stalls to art galleries.
The languages spoken are Macedonianand Albanian, depending on which
country or countries you're visiting.
I thought I would mention thatfor those who use translation apps
(11:51):
or bring physical travel languagephrasebooks on their trips.
You can also visit Rozafa Castle inAlbania, which has a long history.
There's a museum where you can learn aboutthat majestic history, see the statue of
Rozafa, and take in some gorgeous views.
It is about three and a half hoursaway by bus from Ohrid, but for those
(12:14):
who love mythology and folklore,This is linked to a fascinating,
well known legend about Rozafa.
According to an old tale, threebrothers wanted to build a castle,
but the walls kept falling down.
An old man told the brothers that if theywanted the castle to stand, they had to
bury alive in the walls whichever of theirwives brought them food the next day.
(12:39):
But, they couldn't warn them.
The two older brothers told theirwives what would happen, but the
youngest brother kept the secret.
And his wife, Rozafa, brought them food.
After learning the story, Rozafaaccepted immunement, but only if
part of her body remained free.
Free enough to comfort her infant son.
(13:03):
Not only can you see this sculpturetoday, but this legend has been
written about in books And honored inHungarian music over the years as well.
I also want to bring up afew other things to consider.
When packing for your trip,
keep in mind the weather, the summers aredry and winters are cold and can be snowy.
(13:23):
It can get as low as in the twentiesand as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
In terms of places to stay, thereare a small number of hotels, bed
and breakfasts, And a few homestayoptions on the Albanian side.
The North Macedonian side seemsto have more options available.
Of course, food is always one of myfavorite parts of traveling as well.
(13:48):
Tavceh Gravce is the national dishof North Macedonia, and is a must do.
It's a dish made with butter beansthat are soaked, usually overnight, and
cooked with spices in an earthenwarepot, which gives it a special flavor.
This may sound basic, butit is truly creamy goodness.
(14:10):
Whether we're discussing food, traditions,or values, having cultural context
truly allows for a more enrichingand authentic travel experience.
The natural and culturalheritage of the Ohrid region
is a truly special destination.
Our next episode will transport usto another UNESCO World Heritage
(14:31):
Site that captures the imagination.
The natural and cultural historicalregion of Kotor in Montenegro.
Come learn about the history, legends,and travel tips for visiting this
picturesque harbor on the Adriatic coast.
Until then, keep exploring, keepwondering, and keep treasuring
(14:55):
the remarkable diversityof our world's heritage.
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries, where
culture and nature intertwine tocreate something truly extraordinary.
That's the beauty of UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail, and this is GlobalTreasures, the podcast that covers
(00:22):
the history, travel tips, andlegends surrounding one of the 1, 223
World Heritage Sites each episode.
These places have been identified ashaving universal cultural or natural
significance that is so exceptionalthat it transcends national boundaries
(00:43):
and is of importance to present
and future generations.
Welcome to season two, wherewe'll explore the 45 sites that
UNESCO added in 1979 together.
Thank you for listening to the podcast.
We appreciate all of your support, and youcan continue to support us by subscribing
(01:04):
at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean.
You can also follow uson TikTok and Facebook.
Imagine a landscape where water and landengage in an internal, mesmerizing dance.
Where each stone, each ripple, each breathof wind, Carries a millennia of stories.
(01:26):
Close your eyes and transport yourself tothe Ohrid region, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site that defies simple description.
An extraordinary place where naturalwonder and human history intertwine
in the most profound ways imaginable.
A place that draws over300, 000 visitors annually.
(01:51):
This is a journey that will take usacross the borders of southwestern North
Macedonia and eastern Albania througha landscape that is at once a living
museum, a biological treasure and atestament to the remarkable resilience
of both nature and human civilization.
(02:11):
To truly understand the Ohridregion, we must first dive deep
into its geological history, a storythat begins millions of years ago.
Lake Ohrid isn't just a body of water.
It's a liquid time capsule thathas preserved life in ways that
continues to astound scientists.
(02:32):
Geologically speaking, this is part of theNorth South Tectonic Basin that tells a
complex story of Earth's transformation.
Most lakes fill rapidly with sediment,but Ohrid has defied these odds through
a remarkable combination of extraordinarydepth and continuing tectonic subsidence.
(02:55):
The lake's origins date back to thePleistocene period, with sediments
ranging from 3 to 5 million years old.
Imagine a landscape inconstant, subtle motion.
The lake sits within anactive graven system.
A seismogenic landscape where the Earth'scrust is literally being pulled apart.
(03:16):
On February 18, 1911, theregion experienced a significant
earthquake, a magnitude 6.
6 tremor that shook houses butmiraculously caused no loss of life.
The hydraulic system of Lake Ohridis nothing short of miraculous.
Its water comes from multiple sources.
(03:38):
Underground springs on the easternshore provide nearly 50 percent of the
inflow, rivers contribute about 25%, anddirect precipitation makes up the rest.
But perhaps most fascinating is itsconnection to nearby Lake Prespa.
Located just 10 kilometers away, ora little over 6 miles, and 500 feet
(04:03):
higher in altitude, Prespa transferswater to Ohrid through underground
karstic channels A hidden, subterraneanriver system that speaks to the
complex hydrology of the region.
Lake Ohrid is a biological marvelthat challenges our understanding of
evolution and ecological preservation.
(04:26):
With a maximum depth of 945 feetand covering 138 square miles, it's
the deepest lake in the Balkans.
But its true significance lies inits Extraordinary biodiversity.
Imagine water so pure that you can seeup to 22 meters deep, a transparency
(04:48):
that reveals a world of unique lifeforms.
The lake hosts over 200 endemicspecies, making it comparable to
legendary biological hotspots.
Like Lake Baikal and Lake Tanganyika.
17 endemic fish species callthese waters home, including
(05:10):
the remarkable Ohrid trout.
68 species of freshwater snails inhabitthe lake basin, with over 73 percent of
them found nowhere else on the planet.
From microscopic algae tocomplex aquatic creatures.
Lake Ohrid is a living laboratoryof evolutionary processes.
(05:32):
The surrounding wetlands playa crucial role in maintaining
this delicate ecosystem.
The Studenchishte marsh, despitefacing significant threats from urban
development, remains a vital habitat.
It's a buffer that prevents lake. etrophication, and provides a home
(05:52):
for relict plants and endemic species.
The human story of Ohridis equally captivating.
Near the Lin Peninsula in Albania,archaeologists have uncovered one
of Europe's oldest pile dwellingsettlements, a site over 8, 500 years old.
(06:12):
This remarkable discovery predatessimilar Swiss settlements by more
than 2, 000 years, and providescrucial insights into the spread of
agricultural practices across Europe.
The town of Ohrid itself is a livinghistorical manuscript, built primarily
between the 7th and 19th centuries,It's one of Europe's oldest settlements.
(06:36):
Here, you'll find theoldest Slav monastery, St.
Pantelejmon, and a collection of morethan 800 Byzantine style icons, dating
from the 11th to the 14th centuries.
Historically, This was a criticalcrossroads of civilizations.
Its proximity to the ancient Romanroute Via Egnatia connected Durres to
(07:00):
Thessaloniki and Constantinople, makingit a significant communication corridor.
Seven early Christian basilicas,dating from the 4th to 6th centuries,
stand as a testament to theregion's rich religious heritage.
With their intricate mosaic floors, Anddecorative features, telling stories
(07:24):
of faith and artistic expression.
Yet, like many extraordinarynatural sites, the Ohrid region
faces significant challenges.
Tourism, urban development, and climatechange threaten its delicate balance.
The lake has experienced a three foldincrease in phosphorus concentration
(07:45):
over the past century, potentiallydisrupting its unique ecosystem.
Climate projections are concerning.
Scientists warn that without a 50percent reduction in phosphorus input,
the lake's deep waters may lose theiroxygen content within the next 50 years.
(08:05):
This would be catastrophic for theendemic species that have called these
waters home for millions of years.
Conservation efforts areongoing and critical.
The area has been designated a RamsarWetland of International Importance,
recognizing its global significance.
International organizations,local communities, And scientific
(08:28):
researchers are working together toprotect this extraordinary landscape,
understanding that its preservationis a global responsibility.
For scientists, Lake Ohrid functions as anatural laboratory of unprecedented value.
Its sediment cores provide an archive ofregional history spanning an incredible 1.
(08:52):
2 million years.
Researchers have used these coresto study everything from the birth
of European agriculture to regionalclimate shifts and biological evolution.
The lake has provided thefirst empirical evidence of
niche based assembly processes.
In a natural system demonstratingthe dynamic equilibrium
(09:16):
of isolated ecosystems.
It's offered insight into tree cover,soil erosion, and flora composition
during glacier and interglacial periods.
And here's a couple of tidbitsthat will make you smarter
than your average tourist.
Although you're already smarter becauseyou're listening to this podcast.
(09:36):
Did you know that one of themethane lakes on Titan, Jupiter's
moon, is named after Lake Ohrid?
Or that the lake supports hundreds ofthousands of wintering water birds,
including rare species like the Dalmatianpelican and eastern imperial eagle?
The Ohrid region is more thana destination, from its crystal
(09:58):
clear waters to its ancient shores.
From prehistoric settlements toByzantine monasteries, this is a place
that reminds us of the intricate,beautiful complexity of our planet.
So while it's more than a destination,let's talk a bit about what to
do if this is your destination.
Let's start with how to get there.
(10:19):
If you're flying in fromanother country, Ohrid St.
Paul the Apostle Airportin North Macedonia is 9
kilometers or a little over 5.
5 miles from Ohrid.
Tirana Airport is your best optionif flying into Albania, but it
is two and a half hours away.
From the airport, you can take ataxi, rent a car, or take a bus.
(10:43):
Apparently, public transportationis quite inexpensive.
In terms of fees, You will payto park, but walking the grounds,
such as the monastery, is free.
There are numerous detours ofOhrid that depart from Skopje,
which is the capital of Macedonia.
Matka Canyon is also a scenic spotwhere you can book a boat ride that
(11:07):
will take you to the Vrelo Cave.
Around Lake Ohrid specifically,Hiking around the lake, kayaking,
and even paragliding over thelake are popular activities.
This is also an idealspot for bird watching.
If you're seeking other thingsto do while in the area,
Skopje also has the old bazaar.
(11:28):
One of the largest in Europe.
This bazaar was the center of tradefor the city since the 12th century.
And these cobbled streets hold everything,from market stalls to art galleries.
The languages spoken are Macedonianand Albanian, depending on which
country or countries you're visiting.
I thought I would mention thatfor those who use translation apps
(11:51):
or bring physical travel languagephrasebooks on their trips.
You can also visit Rozafa Castle inAlbania, which has a long history.
There's a museum where you can learn aboutthat majestic history, see the statue of
Rozafa, and take in some gorgeous views.
It is about three and a half hoursaway by bus from Ohrid, but for those
(12:14):
who love mythology and folklore,This is linked to a fascinating,
well known legend about Rozafa.
According to an old tale, threebrothers wanted to build a castle,
but the walls kept falling down.
An old man told the brothers that if theywanted the castle to stand, they had to
bury alive in the walls whichever of theirwives brought them food the next day.
(12:39):
But, they couldn't warn them.
The two older brothers told theirwives what would happen, but the
youngest brother kept the secret.
And his wife, Rozafa, brought them food.
After learning the story, Rozafaaccepted immunement, but only if
part of her body remained free.
Free enough to comfort her infant son.
(13:03):
Not only can you see this sculpturetoday, but this legend has been
written about in books And honored inHungarian music over the years as well.
I also want to bring up afew other things to consider.
When packing for your trip,
keep in mind the weather, the summers aredry and winters are cold and can be snowy.
(13:23):
It can get as low as in the twentiesand as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
In terms of places to stay, thereare a small number of hotels, bed
and breakfasts, And a few homestayoptions on the Albanian side.
The North Macedonian side seemsto have more options available.
Of course, food is always one of myfavorite parts of traveling as well.
(13:48):
Tavceh Gravce is the national dishof North Macedonia, and is a must do.
It's a dish made with butter beansthat are soaked, usually overnight, and
cooked with spices in an earthenwarepot, which gives it a special flavor.
This may sound basic, butit is truly creamy goodness.
(14:10):
Whether we're discussing food, traditions,or values, having cultural context
truly allows for a more enrichingand authentic travel experience.
The natural and culturalheritage of the Ohrid region
is a truly special destination.
Our next episode will transport usto another UNESCO World Heritage
(14:31):
Site that captures the imagination.
The natural and cultural historicalregion of Kotor in Montenegro.
Come learn about the history, legends,and travel tips for visiting this
picturesque harbor on the Adriatic coast.
Until then, keep exploring, keepwondering, and keep treasuring
(14:55):
the remarkable diversityof our world's heritage.
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