Radoviš combines medieval city history, a remarkably old maple tree, and the local dishes Samun and Tatlija. To help you choose accommodation and plan your days, it is useful to distinguish clearly: the city history and festival reports concern Radoviš; peaks, caves, and other cultural topics belong to the broader Radovish travel destination. This allows you to consider the town and regional interests separately without confusing their geographical connections.
City History and an Old Maple Tree
Radoviš has had urban functions since the Middle Ages. Its urban character therefore reaches far back into history. A notable natural feature of the town is the Radoviš maple: it is considered the oldest and largest tree in the town and is estimated to be more than six centuries old. The town’s history and the tree offer two different points of interest if you want to learn about the place: its long urban development on the one hand, and a single particularly old tree on the other.
Samun and Tatlija at the Festival
The “Samun em tatlija” festival celebrates two local dishes. Samun is the local name for Pastrmajlija. Tatlija is a traditional dessert made with fresh cheese and eaten after Samun.
At the 2019 festival, more than 10,000 local and foreign tourists were expected during the festival week. A total of 17 stalls presented Samun and Tatlija. The cultural and entertainment program began with a performance by the folklore ensemble “Aco Karamanov”. At a three-day event in 2025, more than 10,000 Samun and just as many Tatlija were expected. These figures refer to the respective editions: visitor numbers and the number of stalls for 2019, and expected quantities of food for 2025.
Celebrating the Town’s Patron Saint
The celebration honoring the town’s patron saint, Sv. Spaso Radoviški, is also part of local tradition. In 2026, the Municipality of Radoviš and the Macedonian Orthodox Church, Bregalnica Diocese – Church of Sv. Troica, held the traditional celebration. Alongside reports about food culture, this religious occasion is also part of Radoviš’s cultural profile.
Nature and Culture in the Broader Radovish Travel Destination
The broader Radovish travel destination includes Lisec, at 1,754 m the highest peak of the Plačkovica Mountains. The ascent is possible from the north, south, or east; the northern route is considered the easiest. If you are considering a hike, check current trail conditions before setting out. Golema Peštera is also located in the Plačkovica Mountains: the cave is 600 m long and features cave formations.
Marked trails lead to the caves Ćup, Ajdučka, Turtel, and Ponor, which are described as easily accessible to visitors. Here too, you should check current trail conditions locally. Borov Dol is another point of interest: an archaeological site in the broader Radovish travel destination. Archaeological investigations show that people lived there as early as the Neolithic period, about 8,000 years ago. The Church of Sv. Troica in Radoviš has a single-nave plan with an inscribed cross and a vaulted dome area in the Byzantine style.
Accommodation in the Wider Travel Destination
The Džumaja mountain lodge is located in the Plačkovica Mountains, 21 km from Radoviš. The building is reported to have 30 sleeping places, as well as electricity and water; its capacity may have changed. If you are considering staying there overnight, check current availability and facilities before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Kozbunar.
View the broader travel overview: Radovish.
