Tetovo

[[file:Tetovo banner Painted Mosque - caption=Detail from the façade of the Šarena Džamija}} View along Pena River - Outside Pasha's Mosque - Tetova (Tetovo) - Macedonia - The Pena River flowing past the Bey's Hamam in Tetovo

Tetovo (Macedonian phrasebook|Macedonian: Тетово, Albanian phrasebook|Albanian: Tetovë) is a town tucked into the northwestern corner of western North Macedonia, in the shadow of the Šar Mountains. The major city of the Polog region, it has about 53,000 people, making it the fifth-largest city in North Macedonia. The Municipality of Tetovo, which includes 18 villages, has a population of over 86,000. Tetovo is a multi-ethnic city in which Albanians form a majority. This has led to some tensions, most recently in the early 2000s, when violence broke out. However and the situation is now quite calm. Tetovo, its unique Ottoman monuments, and its cuisine should be a part of any trip to northwestern North Macedonia.

Tetovo Halal Travel Guide

42.0067483|20.9694634|width=280|layer=W - The population of Tetovo is majority ethnic Albanian, with a minority of Macedonians and others. While the city is often known as the unofficial capital of the Albanians of North Macedonia, and expressions of Albanian national pride, in the form of flag waving from houses and cars and graffiti depicting the map of the "Greater Albania", are common, this is by no means an exclusively Albanian city, and referring to it as such will offend the non-Albanian residents, particularly the ethnic Macedonians — and you can never know who you have been talking to.

The Roman alphabet, in which the Albanian language is written, dominates throughout the city, while Cyrillic signage can be seen on one of the main streets, which is probably the part of the city where the Macedonian community gathers.

Travellers will be rewarded with local hospitality and beautiful scenery in Tetovo.

History

Although there may have been inhabitants in Tetovo's area as early as the Bronze Age, Tetovo was mentioned for the first time in the beginning of 13th century as a small medieval Orthodox settlement around the Holy Mother of God Church in the upper part of town.

At the end of the 14th century, Tetovo, along with all of Macedonia, fell under the rule of the Islamic Ottoman Empire. As the Muslim population in Macedonia began to expand in the early Ottoman period, masjids, baths, and markets began to appear as early as the 15th century. Tetovo under Ottoman tutelage became an important trade center for the local farmers and craftsmen, as well as an important military fortification. Turkish influence deeply impacted Tetovo and it was renamed Kalkandelen (Turkish) for "shield breaker", in honour of the blacksmiths of the city, who produced powerful swords and spears) to reinforce the new Islamic presence. Haci Halife in the 17th century noted in his writings that Kalkandelen was expanding at an amazing rate in its lowland areas.

By the 19th century, when the population of Tetovo began to increase with settlement from the surrounding villages and the French traveller Ami Bue noted that the population had reached about 4,500 people. In 1912, following the Balkan wars, Tetovo became a Serbian city. In World War II, Tetovo was jointly ruled by Italy and its puppet regime in Albania. The Party of Macedonia was formed on March 19, 1943 in Tetovo. After the war, it became part of Yugoslavia.

In 2001, ethnic Albanians launched an insurgency in the Republic of Macedonia and Tetovo was the primary base for the insurgents. The Ohrid Agreement, guaranteeing wider rights for ethnic minorities, was signed later in the same year, ending the conflict.

Today, Tetovo is major city with two universities, many private companies, stores, some important historical sights.

Travel as a Muslim to Tetovo

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Tetovo

Railway Station Boris Kidrich Street (Борис Кидрич) 42.0073, 20.9866

Travel on a Bus in Tetovo

Bus Station Тетово Автобуска Cтаница| Boris Kidrich Street (Борис Кидрич) 42.01, 20.99 ☎ +38944 339130Opening Hours: 24/7 There is perfect and regular bus connection with all of the cities in North Macedonia. There is a regular bus line from/to Skopje on every 30 minutes, taking around 50 minutes to an hour to cover the route, costing 110 den one-way. Saturday to bus departs , to Gostivar (hourly, between 06:00-19:40), to Skopje (half-hourly, 06:00-19:40), to Kičevo (06:00, 07:00, 12:00, 13:20, 15:20, 17:00, 19:20), to Struga (seven times per day, 06:00-18:25), Kumanovo (three times). - Eurobus is an international coach operator based in North Macedonia that has almost daily tours from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Slovenia. Prices from €70 and feasible to get student discount. Almost daily in modern coaches from Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Italy, Slovenia. Stops in the major cities Skopje, Tetovo, Ohrid.

By car

The highway Skopje-Gostivar goes through Tetovo. It is very nice and smooth road, but you have to pay on pay-tolls to drive on it twice (once while leaving Skopje, and once again on the approach to Tetovo), price 30 denars each time.

How to get around in Tetovo

By foot

All of the sights within the city of Tetovo are within close walking distance of one another. The fortress, however, is almost an hour walk from the churches in the upper part of town.

Best way to travel in Tetovo by a Taxi

Taxis are available in Tetovo, with larger concentrations on major boulevards like Ilindenska and Maršal Tito.

What to see in Tetovo

The Colorful Mosque of Tetovo , Шарена џамија Тетово 4 - Šarena Džamija and the Decorated Mosque Arabati Baba Tekke, svatyne radu Bektasi na okraji Tetova - Arabati Baba Tekje

Tetovo's most important and most interesting sights are reminders of its Ottoman legacy. This includes a unique mosque, a Bektashi Order monastery, a fortress, and a Turkish bath.

Šarena Džamija - Шарена Џамија - 42.005643, 20.966822 Šarena Džamija Kalkandelen - Alaca Cami R01 The most unique mosque in North Macedonia and the Šarena Džamija (meaning "Decorated Mosque") was built in 1438. It was, however, reconstructed in 1833 by Abdurrahman Pasha, when it received its present appearance. Abdurrahman Pasha was an art enthusiast which helps explain why the mosque has bright floral paintings, unlike other Ottoman masjids which typically have ceramic tile decor. More than 30,000 eggs were used to prepare the paint and glaze that went into the elaborate decorations. In addition to the geometric and floral ornamentation, landscape is also encountered. Among the pictorial decorations, especially attractive is the depiction of Mecca, a rare and perhaps the only example of an illustration of the shrine of Muhammad in southeast Europe. Another uncommon feature of this mosque is that it is not topped by a domed roof. The courtyard contains a türbe (tomb), a fountain, and is filled with flowers. The mosque sits on Ilindenska Boulevard just west of the Pena River.
Arabati Baba Tekje - Арабати баба-теќе | 42.0026, 20.9556 - Arabati Baba Teḱe Arabati Baba Tekke, svatyne radu Bektasi na okraji Tetova - A tekje is a place of spiritual retreat in the Bektashi Order, a type of Sufi Islam, similar to a monastery. This one is the best surviving Bektashi tekje in Europe. The sprawling complex was established in 1538. Ali Baba, brother-in-law of Sultun Suleiman the Magnificent, was banished to Tetovo in the 16th century. He trainingd the way of the Bektashi Order until his death, after which his only surviving pupil Arabati Baba founded a monastery to commemorate Ali Baba. The current buildings in the complex were built in the late 18th century by Recep Pasha whose tomb lies next to that of Ali Baba. Some of the buildings are in good shape while others are in poor condition. After the Islamic Ottomans were driven out of Macedonia and the complex was nationalised under Yugoslavia and used as a hotel and museum. Today, in the Republic of North Macedonia and the complex is back in the hands of the Bektashi Order.
Tetovo Fortress - Тетовско кале - 42.019145, 20.959666 - Situated on the hill Baltepe above the city on the east bank of the Pena River, this fortress was first inhabited during Late Antiquity. Most of the visible remains date from 1820, built under Abdurrahman Pasha. It now sits in ruins with walls, arches, and tunnels. A couple structures stand pretty excellently maintained.
Bey's Hamam - Беговски амам - 42.006291, 20.967425 - Begovski Amam Tetovo $ (43).JPG Built in the 15th century, this hamam (Turkish) bath) sits across the river from the Šarena Džamija on Ilindenska Boulevard. The hamam and the mosque were built around the same time. In 1962 and the stone-built structure was transformed into an art gallery. It was completely renovated in 2015.
Memorial Museum of the Party of Macedonia - Меморијален Музеј на Комунистачката партија на Македонија - 42.013898, 20.96546 - Historic buildings 80 Tetovo is where the Party of Macedonia was founded in the 1940s. The museum is in the former Jovanovski family home where the communist committee, including chairman Lazar Koliševski, was first appointed

}} Crkva Sveti Kiril i Metodij-Tetovo (13) - Side of the Church of Sts Cyril and Methodius

Tetovo has some interesing bridges across the Pena River, particularly the medieval single-arch Stone Bridge.

Churches

Tetovo's churches are relatively new by Macedonian standards, though they were often built atop older destroyed churches.

Church of Sts Cyril and Methodius - Црква „Св. Кирил и Методиј“ - 42.01354, 20.96699 - Crkva Sveti Kiril i Metodij-Tetovo (5).JPG This church, built from 1903 to 1918, is one of the biggest churches in the Polog region. It was built in the historic part of the town. The church is a three-nave basilica with a single dome and a cruciform basis. It is primarily white with a red roof. The fresco painting on the walls was done by painter Danilo Nestorovski in 1924. The church also contains an icon gallery.
Church of Street Nicholas - Црква „Св. Никола“ - 42.01251, 20.96204 - St. Nicholas Kirche von Tetovo - Located in the northern part of town and the first church here was built in 1842. However, it was destroyed in 1872 and sat in ruins until reconstruction began in 1901. It was completed in 1912. A church dedicated to Street Parasheva and Street Nedela was built in 2007 behind the Church of Street Nicholas.
Holy Virgin Mother of God Church - 42.01204, 20.95987 - Sv. Bogorodica vo Tetovo 012.JPG Across the Pena River from the Church of Street Nicholas, this church was completed in 1916. It has a bell tower and a dome.
Church of Street Athanasius - Црква „Св. Атанасиј“ - 42.018841, 20.960091

Св. Атанасиј на Балтепе (1) Located within the Tetovo Fortress, a church existed in this area in the 13th century but the present-day church was built in 1922. Its metal roof is one of its uncommon features. A large cross stands atop the bell tower.

Monastery of Street George - Манастир „Св. Ѓорѓи“ - 41.995590, 20.944691 - Within the village of Mala Rečica, just west of the Arabati Baba Tekje, this monastery was destroyed by Albanian insurgents in the 2001 conflict but, with the help of the village's primarily ethnic Albanian population, it has been rebuilt.

Further afield

Šipkovica - Шипковица - 42.035474, 20.914431 Northwest 12 kilometers - Sipkovica Shipkovica Vilage A picturesque mountain village northwest of Tetovo.

What to do in Tetovo

Popova Sapka vo januari 2013 $ (11) - Looking down from Popova Šapka

Žena Park - Жена Парк | Boris Kidrich Street 42.0078, 20.9830

Skiing

Popova Šapka - Попова Шапка | 42.015887, 20.87809 West 18 km - Popova-Shapka-Panoramic-View - A peak of the Šar Mountains rising 1,780 m (5,840 ft) and a ski resort surrounding the peak, west of Tetovo. It is North Macedonia's most popular ski resort with several hotels and restaurants. Various ski trails are good for beginners and experts. It is basically a ghost town outside of ski season.

Study in Tetovo

State University of Tetovo - is one of the four Macedonian state universities. The university was established on 17 December 1994, however it was not recognized as a state university by the Macedonian government until January 2004. Classes are held in Macedonian, English, and some in Albanian.
South East European University - was founded in October 2001 and is a member of the European University Association. It is a recognised and accredited autonomous higher education institution which was established in 2001 by an agreement between international donors and the government of the Republic of Macedonia, and the local academic community.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Tetovo

City Shopping Center - Ilindenska Street 42.00913, 20.96993
Vero Supermarket - Веро | Vidoe Smilevski Bato 42.0068, 20.9803 Opening Hours:
Market - Illyria and Blagoja Toska corner 42.0076, 20.9777
Komercijalna Banka AD Skopje - Ilirija bb 42.0059, 20.9795

Sunday market scene in Tetovo, Macedonia - Market in Tetovo

Halal Restaurants in Tetovo

Tetovo is a food paradise. It is said that Tetovo produces the best Burek, a sort of greasy, phyllo dough pastry filled with Cheese or ground Meat that is popular throughout the Balkan peninsula. It resembles a Cheese pie, but contains more fat and has stronger flavour. Also, by general consent, it is much more delicious. Some vendors sell other varieties such as apple, spinach or pizza burek (frequently just a combination between the Meat and Cheese Burek).

The Shopska salad is another phenomenal, yet simple, dish to be found in Tetovo. It consists of chopped up tomato, cucumber, onion, oil, a little salt and a generous topping of a domestic feta-like Cheese. The local feta is usually less sharp than feta typically found in the west by a considerable margin. Most websites with recipes simply call it a brined sheep Cheese and the French are known to make a similar feta. Another local trademark is the 'Urnebes' salad, literally translated as 'chaos' or 'pandemonium' - basically cream Cheese in oil mixed with ground peppers, garlic and sometimes sesame.

Sharska Pleskavica, Burgers with yellow Cheese, contains a concoction of spiced ground beef, Beef and lamb. It may be served in a bun, pita bread or by itself on a plate depending on where you get one. It usually is accompanied by onions, a paprika based Sauce and in the case of the fast-food-esque vendors you'll have a variety of Sauces and toppings to accompany it.

Vegetarians had been almost totally neglected in Balkan regions until recently, but now most restaurants will have some options for them, too. Vegans might encounter more problems, although most are usually solved with the help of kind local restaurant owners. Note the traditional fasting periods, especially in April before Orthodox Easter holidays, when some Halal restaurants offer fish and non-animal food, including some specialties.

Carpe Diem - ☎ +389 44 350069 | Opening Hours: 24/7
Restaurant Dubrovnik - Boris Kidrich ☎ +389 44 338 66970 336330
Punto Verde Restaurant | Dimo Gavrovski Kara Street ☎ +389 44 337 498
Restoran Belamia - Goce Delcev 108 ☎ +389 44 331332
3 Fenera - Fine Dining Restaurant | Dervish Cara, 8 42.0075, 20.9705 Getting to the 3fenera is remarkably easy, since most people already use us as a landmark when giving directions. ☎ +389 44 335514 | Opening Hours: Daily 07:00-23:00, Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Coffee, and drinks.

Delfin, Illyria Street,
Rima, Jane Snadanski bb, +389 44 338 686
Burgers House, Jane Sandanski, +389 44 529 444
MEANA Egej, Boris kidrik, bb, +389 44 341 360
Restaurant Shushu, Blagoja Toska (Благоја Тоска ББ), +389 70 840 121

Tap water is drinkable in Tetovo. Locals like to boast that, Tetovo has the best water on Balkans. Although this claim can probably be contested and the water from the central supply system is drunk by most residents. More cautious visitors are advised to buy bottled water in any shop: a variety of brands are available.

There is a throng of cafes in downtown Tetovo, most of which serve various coffee drinks, soft drinks and drinks. Some specialty bars serve a more limited scope of beverages.

Local fruit cocktails are usually of the best of quality. The more expensive the better. International brands are offered in most bars.

Rakija, a powerful made from various fruits (usually plum or grape), is a local favorite. Attention: some kinds may be pretty strong for a newbie.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Tetovo

Tetovo - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Tetovo, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Tetovo. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Tetovo and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Tetovo. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Tetovo. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inTetovo: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Tetovo.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Tetovo: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Tetovo, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Tetovo.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Tetovo, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Tetovo, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Tetovo and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Tetovo, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Tetovo, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Tetovo without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Tetovo is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Tetovo.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Tetovo is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Tetovo, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Tetovo Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Tetovo

eHalal Group Tetovo is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Tetovo. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Tetovo.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Tetovo ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Tetovo. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Tetovo, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Tetovo are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Hotel Dinamika | Illyria бб, - GPS: ☎ +389 44 338669
Hotel Lirak - Bulevard Ilirija 42.0081, 20.9755 next to market
Hotel & Restaurant Tivoli | Bulevard Ilirija, 19 - GPS: 42.0087 ,20.9738 ☎+389 44 352370 +389 44 352 371| price=Single €45, double €60 (2023)| checkin= |checkout= . Mob. +389 71 389213

Nearby

File:Боговињско Езеро 05 - Bogovinje Lake

Bogovinje Lake - Боговињско Езеро | 41.9505, 20.7928

Боговињско Езеро 05 . This lake is the largest of the 27 glacial lakes of the Šar Mountains. It is in Bogovinje Municipality, south of Tetovo. Novo Selo is the village furthest up the mountains toward the lake and a good spot to begin a hike. At an elevation of 1,936 m (6,351 ft), it lies between the peaks of Borislavec and Mala Smerka.

Oraško Kale - Орашко Кале - 42.107778, 21.153889 village of Orašje Орашко Кале 02 . Located about one kilometer (0.6 miles) from the Vardar River and standing 110 m (361 ft) above it, is this set of ruins which date from Late Antiquity through the Middle Ages. Not a great deal is left of the fortifications or the historical mining sites just beneath them, but it is situated on a high hill that provides expansive views of the surrounding geography, such as the peak of Ljuboten.
Church of Street Petka - Црква „Св. Петка“ - 42.015556, 21.095833 village of Siričino - This church was built in 1567, though it didn't begin to carry the name Street Petka until its first renovation in 1641. It was again renovated in 1884 and 1958. The frescoes are highly regarded: some were completed in the 17th century, while the rest were completed in the 19th century.

News & References Tetovo

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Tetovo

Brvenica, municipality just south of Tetovo
Skopje, 42 km to the east, is the nation's capital
Debar, relaxing in its thermal mineral spas
Mavrovo National Park
Kičevo, southward one hour drive. Visit St. Bogorodica Precista, - a monastery with the 'flying icon'
Prizren, 110 km via Globocica. This historic Kosovo|Kosovar city is just north of Tetovo; however and the sheer wall of the Šar Mountains in between makes travel to Prizren take a lot longer than if the terrain were flat. While there is a shortcut-ish remote mountain route going from Tetovo, detouring through Skopje is probably more reliable, especially if you want to take the public transport.