Start of Conservation Work on the Skopje Aqueduct

The Skopje Aqueduct is one of the last in the Balkans which is preserved in its entirety. Unfortunately, we cannot boast that this is due to our merit. That is why I called it a masterpiece of the ancient builders which defied the centuries, natural disasters, wars and people. Now we have a chance to correct it. That is what we are doing. Recently, the Government adopted a decision to declare the Aqueduct a cultural heritage of special significance, subcategory of exceptional significance because this magnificent monument possesses values, not only of great national significance, but it belongs to humanity as well. Therefore, the Skopje Aqueduct received the highest act of protection. This enables permanent preservation of its values in cultural and historical sense. Protection of the architecture and the social, educational, tourist and economic aspects of the site. With this, finally, its physical protection begins. Today we mark the beginning of the first phase of conservation and restoration of the Skopje Aqueduct. Protection is an expensive undertaking, but it is nothing compared to the value of this cultural property. The Aqueduct is not construction material for the unscrupulous and unconscious, nor is it a safe with some hidden wealth for thieves. On the contrary, the Aqueduct itself is a treasure. I am convinced that the institutions will invest all knowledge and skill in its protection. We have the obligation to promote the Aqueduct before the world which recognizes the value of these monuments and puts them on tourist maps as attractive destinations. But before that, its value should be promoted at home because, unfortunately, I have the impression that most know where "City Mall" is, but do not know where this ancient aqueduct is and what it represents. Someone might say: "that saved it". But I am convinced that from today the Aqueduct is receiving the deserved attention and care. Because the Skopje Aqueduct is truly a sight that takes your breath away.See PRESS Video