Radoviš: City History, Ancient Maple and Regional Cuisine

Radoviš has had urban functions since the Middle Ages. The Radoviš maple is considered the oldest and largest tree in the city; its age is estimated at more than six centuries. Samun is the local name for Pastrmajlija. Tatlija is a traditional sweet eaten after Samun and prepared with fresh cheese.

The city’s urban functions date back to the Middle Ages. As a natural counterpoint, the Radoviš maple offers a different perspective on time: it is estimated to be more than six centuries old and is also considered the oldest and largest tree in the city. In Radoviš, urban history and a remarkable old tree thus serve as distinct points of reference.

A religious festival tradition is also part of the city: in 2026, the Municipality of Radoviš and the Macedonian Orthodox Church, Bregalnica Diocese – Church of Sv. Troica, traditionally celebrated the feast in honor of the city’s patron saint, Sv. Spaso Radoviški. For travelers interested in local culture, this occasion offers insight into an urban custom and its connection to the named church.

Samun is the local name for Pastrmajlija; Tatlija is traditionally eaten afterward and prepared with fresh cheese. This sequence is part of the food culture described: the sweet specialty follows the savory dish. More than 10,000 Samun and an equal number of Tatlija were expected for the three-day 2025 edition of the “Samun em tatlija” festival.

More than 10,000 domestic and international tourists were expected during the festival week of the 2019 edition. At the 2019 edition, Samun and Tatlija were presented at a total of 17 stalls. The cultural and entertainment program for the 2019 edition opened with a performance by the “Aco Karamanov” folk ensemble. The 2019 and 2025 figures offer different insights into the festival: one into expected visitor numbers and the range of stalls, the other into the planned quantities of food.

In the wider destination of Radovish, Lisec, at 1,754 meters, is the highest peak in the Plačkovica Mountains. It can be climbed from the north, south or east; the northern route is considered the easiest. Plačkovica is also home to the 600-meter-long Golema Peštera, with its cave formations. Marked trails lead to the caves Ćup, Ajdučka, Turtel and Ponor, which are described as easily accessible to visitors.

The Kamnik, Kozjak and Zrnovka gorges have markings, information boards, signposts, ropes, iron fixtures and rest areas for those exploring them. Check current trail conditions before setting out. The Plavaja River is 26.7 kilometers long and is suitable for fishing and freshwater fish farming. Borov Dol is an archaeological site where human life developed around 8,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period.

Regional culture also offers several points of interest. In the wider destination of Radovish, the three-day Sv. Spaso Radoviški celebration takes place every year in mid-August. The program includes church services, a spiritual academy, a procession and a concert; check the exact date for your travel year. Pelivan wrestling in Topolnica is part of a Juruč festival that honors the long-standing tradition of the Juruč population in the Municipality of Radoviš. The Karamonovi Poetry Meetings have a tradition spanning more than 40 years; check the dates and program separately for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Kozbunar.

How old is the Radoviš maple?

Its age is estimated at more than six centuries. It is considered the oldest and largest tree in the city of Radoviš.

What does Samun mean?

Samun is the local name for Pastrmajlija. Tatlija is a sweet specialty traditionally eaten afterward.

Which routes lead up Lisec?

The highest peak in the Plačkovica Mountains can be climbed from the north, south or east. The northern route is considered the easiest; check current trail conditions before your hike.

Go to the wider travel overview: Radovish.