The Republic of Macedonia (Macedonian: Republika Makedonija), or just Macedonia, is a landlocked country on the Balkan peninsula in southeastern Europe. It is bordered by Serbia to the north, Albania to the west, Greece to the south, and Bulgaria to the east. The capital is Skopje, with 600,000 inhabitants. There are a number of smaller cities, notably Bitola, Prilep, Tetovo, Kumanovo, Ohrid, Veles, Štip, Kocani, Gostivar and Strumica. Macedonia has more than 50 natural and artificial lakes and 16 mountains higher than 2,000 meters (6,550  ft ) above sea level. The country is a member of the UN and the Council of Europe and a member of La Francophonie, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Since December 2005 it is also a candidate for joining the European Union and has applied for NATO membership.

Skopje, the capitol of Macedonia
Skopje, nightime		Byzantine mosaic from Heraclea Lyncestis, ancient city founded by Philip II of Macedon - near the current city of Bitola

Throughout its history, the present-day territory of Macedonia has been a crossroads for both traders and conquerors moving between the European continent and Asia Minor. Each of these transiting powers left its mark upon the region, giving rise to a rich and varied cultural and historical tradition. The ancient country of Macedonia (Macedon) included, in addition to the areas of the present-day Macedonia, large parts of present-day northern Greece and southwestern Bulgaria. This ancient kingdom reached its height during the reign of Alexander III ("the Great"or "of Macedonia," 356-323 B.C.), who extended Macedonia's influence over most of Asia Minor, the Levant, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, and even parts of India.

A small and beautiful country nestled in the southeast of Europe, today's Macedonia offers its visitors a unique blend of natural wonders, traditions and cultures -- as well as a long tradition of unrivaled hospitality. From their savory cuisine to their love of music, dance and general merrymaking, Macedonians know how to make their guests feel at home. Combining these qualities with the country's dramatic mountains and canyons, its deep lakes and rivers, Macedonia has something for everyone.

Ohrid, city on Lake Ohrid, popular resort area
Ohrid, Old City architecture		The 13th-century church of St. John at Kaneo, near Lake Ohrid

• 3-Letter abbreviation: MKD
• 2-Letter abbreviation: MK
• Country common name: Macedonia
• Country official name: Republic of Macedonia
• Continent: Europe
• Capital: Skopje
• Other major cities: Bitola, Prilep, Kumanovo, Ohrid, Stip
• Currency: Macedonian denar
• Official languages: Macedonian
• Motto: "Today over Macedonia the bright sun of freedom is rising "

• Surface area: 25,333  km²
• Highest point: Golem Korab 2,753 m
• Neighbouring countries: Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece and Albania
• Neighbouring seas and oceans: None