 Project description
The Monument of Freedom by the academic sculptor Jordan Grabul, located on the Vardarski Rid site nearby Gevgelija, is a spot where people used to gather on the occasion of various holidays, special events, manifestations, or would simply spend their leisure time in the fresh air and in nature. Yet, after the archeological site of Vardarski Rid was discovered, which represents a significant pre-historic and Hellenic settlement from the XIII-I century B.C., to be now transformed into an archeological park, the Monument has lost its function. It now stands on the hill, lonely and unvisited, hindering at the same time further archeological research. Represented by several citizen associations, the Museum - Gevgelija, and the local self-government, local people have decided to place the monument on another location and to restore the tradition related to it. The monument is to be relocated to the Mrzenski Rid and is to again become a place where people will gather and associate.
Contact
National Institution Museum - Gevgelija, Marshal Tito 26, 1480 Gevgelija
Boban Husenovski, 034/213-660; 070/599-788,
bohus@mt.net.mk, muzejgev@mt.net.mk
Location
Gevgelija, southern Macedonia
 About the Monument of Freedom and the Vardarski Rid site
Academician Jordan Grabul created the “Freedom” monument in early 1970s. The monument is dedicated to killed soldiers and victims in the Second World War, from Gevgelija and its surroundings.
Systematic research of the Vardarski Rid archeological site in the period between 1994 and 2004 defined it as the most significant pre-historic and Hellenic settlement in the lower course of the Vardar river area. The first signs of organized life here date from the XIII century B.C., although there are some indications of the existence of a Neolithic settlement in the year 4500 B.C.. Recent results from research done in 2003-2004 suggest the existence of the last settlement V.R.VI in the course of the first century of the new era i.e. during the republican Roman period which at the same time represents a terminus post quem of the settlement.
How to reach Gevgelija?
Gevgelija is located at the very south of Macedonia, by the country’s border to the Republic of Greece. You can reach the town driving on a modern highway, and there are also regular and solid bus and railway lines.
Vardarski Rid is located at a 3,5 kilometres distance from downtown Gevgelija, on the right bank of the Vardar river, and Mrzenski Rid is located next to the nearby village of Mrzenci.
Where to stay overnight?
The “Vardar” motel, a modern tourist accommodation facility, is located at the very site of Vardarski Rid. You can also stay overnight in several hotels in Gevgelija, including the “Jugo” hotel. In the vicinity of Mrzenski Rid, at a distance of 2,5 kilometres, the famous Negorski Banji (Spa) are located, also offering accommodation.
Local specifics
Gevgelija is famous for its mild Mediterranean climate. Here, you can taste delicious fruits and vegetables almost during the whole year. While in town, you can visit the Gevgelija Museum with its permanent archaeological display called “Vardarski Rid and Sites Nearby” where you can also buy a ceramic copy of some of the displays discovered at the Vardarski Rid archaeological site. Visit the “Jugo” hotel where exhibitions are often organized. A famous recreation centre - the “Fatamorgana” swimming pool - is located in the town. At the foot of the Mrzenski Rid you can visit the famous gourmand restaurant called “Javor” whose specialties are widely known.
What can you see in the surroundings?
The tourist recreational and therapeutic complex centre of Negorski Banji (Spa) is located in the vicinity of Gevgelija. You can also visit the Smrdliva Voda site on the Kozuf Mountain, with its mineral springs. In the vicinity, you can visit the Dojran Lake, famous for its pomegranate, figs, raspberries, but also for its mild climate and healing air, especially to people suffering from bronchial diseases.
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