Understand

Located at the foot of the magnificent mountain Bjeshket e Nemuna, this city has a rich and diverse cultural character shaped by different ruling powers throughout history. The influence of the Orthodox religion is evident in the construction of impressive religious sites and monasteries, including the majestic Pe Patriarchate, a UNESCO world heritage site from the medieval Serbian empire. Under Ottoman rule, the city took on an enchanting oriental atmosphere with its narrow streets, old-style Turkish houses, and mosques like the historic Bajrakli Mosque, built in the 15th century using remnants from Serbia's medieval Monastery of Holy Archangels. The city's architecture also reflects a brief period of Austro-Hungarian presence in the early 20th century, with handsome buildings adorning the city center amidst massive socialist buildings and apartment blocks. The surrounding mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop and offer a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rock climbing, making it an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kosovo's national dish is called Pasta e fasule, which translates to "pasta with beans". It is a hearty, vegetarian dish consisting of pasta cooked with white beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices. The combination of the rich tomato sauce, tender beans, and al dente pasta creates a delicious and comforting meal that is loved by many in the region.

Another popular dish in Kosovo is Tavë Kosi, a traditional baked lamb and rice dish. The lamb is marinated in yogurt, garlic, and herbs before being slow-cooked, resulting in tender, juicy meat. The cooked rice and some of the yogurt mixture are placed at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by layers of the marinated lamb, more rice, and finally more yogurt. The dish is then baked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together into a decadent symphony of tastes and textures. Though this dish does contain meat (lamb), it is often served with a side of fresh vegetables to balance the richness.

A favorite appetizer in Kosovo is Accre, a spread made from roasted red peppers, eggplant, and various spices. The peppers and eggplant are charred over an open flame until the skin is blackened and then peeled off, revealing tender, smoky flesh. They are then combined with garlic, oil, lemon juice, and other seasonings to create a bold, flavorful spread. Acre is traditionally served alongside grilled bread or crackers as a tasty starter to any meal. This appetizer is suitable for both omnivores and vegetarians alike, as it contains no meat or animal products.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing