Information
Landmark: Millennium CrossCity: Skopje
Country: North Macedonia
Continent: Europe
Millennium Cross, Skopje, North Macedonia, Europe
Overview
Rising high above Skopje, the Millennium Cross (Милениумски крст, Mileniumski Krst) stands as a defining landmark and a proud emblem of Macedonia’s cultural and religious heritage.From the slopes of Mount Vodno, it rises high enough to catch the eye from every corner of the city, drawing visitors for its sweeping views and quiet sense of reverence.Perched atop Mount Vodno, just southwest of Skopje’s center, the Millennium Cross rises 66 meters-taller than most church steeples-and has stood since 2002 as a tribute to 2,000 years of Christianity.Built from steel and lit by thousands of LEDs that glow like a beacon against the night sky, it honors Macedonia’s Christian heritage while welcoming visitors from everywhere.Funded by the Macedonian Orthodox Church, private donors, and the government, the cross features a viewing platform with sweeping vistas of Skopje and the surrounding hills.You can reach it by gliding up the mountain in a modern cable car from the Vodno mid-station.The ride gives you sweeping views of the city and the hills beyond, their colors shifting with the light.If you’d rather hike, Mount Vodno’s well-marked trails lead you up to the cross.You can also drive, parking at the middle station.Go early in the morning or at sunset, when the air feels cool and the sky glows.At night, the Millennium Cross glows against the dark sky, casting a soft golden light that feels almost otherworldly; nearby, a small café and a souvenir shop sit beside the viewing platform, while benches and picnic tables invite visitors to pause and take in the view.Rooted in Macedonia’s Christian heritage since Saint Paul’s time, the cross also stands as a proud national emblem of unity and progress.Around Mount Vodno, hiking and biking trails wind through the trees, and a short trip away, Matka Canyon offers kayaking, boat rides, and caves to explore.Back in Skopje’s lively center, Macedonia Square and the Stone Bridge showcase the city’s cultural heart.On clear days, the cross is visible from 50 kilometers away, and its 66-meter height-symbolizing both the 33 years of Christ’s life and 2,000 years of Christianity-marks it as a striking blend of faith, history, and engineering.Perched high on Mount Vodno, it offers sweeping views of the valleys below, a quiet stillness in the air, and a powerful link to Macedonia’s Christian heritage.Whether you’re into history, drawn to the outdoors, or just chasing an unforgettable moment, the Millennium Cross towers above Skopje and begs to be seen.
