Vardar

Vardar is a major river in the Balkan Peninsula, flowing primarily through North Macedonia and northern Greece. In ancient Greek sources it was known as Axios; the modern name Vardar is used in Macedonian and other South Slavic languages. The river is about 389 kilometers long and drains into the Aegean Sea, entering the Thermaic Gulf near Thessaloniki.

Originating in the northern part of North Macedonia, the Vardar runs generally southward, passing through Skopje, the country’s capital, and continuing through central and southern regions before crossing into Greece and reaching the Aegean coastline. Its valley supports agriculture and urban water supply, and the downstream section hosts several hydroelectric plants.

Ecologically, the Vardar Basin contains diverse habitats, with protected areas such as Matka Canyon near Skopje and various riparian ecosystems along the river. The river has historically served as a key transportation and trade route within the region, shaping settlement and economic patterns along its course.

Beyond geography, Vardar also denotes several North Macedonian institutions and cultural entities, including FK Vardar Skopje, a prominent football club based in Skopje and one of the country’s most successful teams. The name remains a symbol of national and regional identity, appearing in geography, culture, and sport.