(1st Photo: New U.S. Embassy viewed from the Kale Fortress. Wonder why Macedonia warrants a U.S. embassy of that magnitude?)

Kale Fortress in Skopje

The Skopje Fortress (Macedonian: Скопско Кале, transliterated Skopsko Kale), commonly referred to as Kale Fortress, or simply Kale (from kale, the Turkish word for 'fortress'), is a historic fortress located in Skopje, the capital of the Republic of Macedonia. It is situated on the highest point in the city overlooking the Vardar River. The fortress is depicted on the coat of arms of Skopje, which in turn is incorporated in the city's flag.[1]

In late 2006 and early 2007, research and excavation of the Skopje Fortress funded by the Macedonian goverenment had finally commenced. Researchers discovered woodwind instruments and clay ornaments dating as far back as 3000 BC. Excavation of the main fortress also revealed houses below the fortress' visible level. The discoveries are believed to have belonged to inhabitants of Skupi on which the fortress was built. Archaelogical excavations continued in 2009.