Matka Canyon

Matka (Macedonian: Матка; Albanian: Matkë) is a canyon located west of central Skopje, North Macedonia.

Covering roughly 5,000 hectares,[1] Matka is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in North Macedonia and is home to several medieval monasteries.

The canyon also features two vertical pits, both roughly extending 35 metres (114.8 feet) in depth.

[5][6] Matka Canyon is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, some of which are unique to the area.

The canyon is also home to 77 indigenous species of butterfly, in addition to the most venomous snake in south Europe, the horned viper.

[8] Due in large part to its proximity to Skopje, Matka Canyon is a popular destination for citizens and tourists.