The Cathedral Church of St. Clement of Ohrid – locals simply call it Soborna Crkva – is the main cathedral of the Macedonian Orthodox Church and one of the most distinctive modern buildings in Skopje. Its cluster of rounded domes looks unlike any other church in the Balkans.
St. Clement of Ohrid Cathedral at a glance
| Location | City centre, a short walk from Macedonia Square |
| Architect | Slavko Brezoski |
| Built | Started in the early 1970s, consecrated in 1990 |
| Entry | Free (active church) |
| Time needed | 20–30 minutes |
Who was St. Clement of Ohrid?
St. Clement was a disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius and one of the great teachers of the Slavic world. He founded a school in Ohrid and is credited with spreading Christianity and literacy among the Slavs, which is why he is honoured as the patron of education and literacy in North Macedonia.
Architecture
The cathedral was designed by the Macedonian architect Slavko Brezoski. Instead of copying a medieval church, he combined the traditional Orthodox plan with bold modern forms: a large central dome surrounded by smaller rounded vaults that step down like waves. The result is one of the most photographed examples of late-20th-century church architecture in the region.
Inside the cathedral
The interior is decorated with frescoes and icons in the traditional Orthodox style. The iconostasis – the wall of icons that separates the nave from the sanctuary – is the focal point, and a large chandelier hangs beneath the central dome. Scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints cover the walls.
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The cathedral in city life
As the main cathedral of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, it hosts the biggest religious ceremonies in the country, including the Christmas and Easter services, as well as weddings, baptisms and the enthronement of church leaders. It is also a symbol of Macedonian identity, closely tied to St. Clement and the beginnings of Slavic literacy.
Visiting tips
- Dress modestly – shoulders and knees covered.
- Visit outside service times if you want to look around quietly; Sunday mornings are busiest.
- Be respectful with photography inside, especially during services.
Nearby attractions
Combine the cathedral with the Church of St. Constantine and Helena, Macedonia Square and the Stone Bridge. For medieval Orthodox art, don’t miss St. Panteleimon in Nerezi.
Where to Stay Near St. Clement of Ohrid Cathedral
For St. Clement of Ohrid Cathedral, the best base is the city centre: most sights, restaurants and bus stops are within walking distance, and you won’t need a taxi in the evening.
- Skopje Marriott Hotel – right on Macedonia Square, the most central upscale choice.
- Hotel Senigallia – rooms on a rebuilt sailing ship moored on the Vardar, in the middle of the city.
- Solun Hotel & Spa – a central hotel with a spa, a short walk from the main square.
Browse all hotels in Skopje city centre, compare neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay in Skopje guide, or see our pick of the best hotels in Skopje.
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