The fortress was originally constructed on the site of a 4th-century BC fortification built by King Philip II of Macedon.
Archaeological excavations revealed a 'Metal Helmet' from the 5th century BC, believed to belong to a high-ranking military official.
The interior of the fortress contains a residential complex that was likely used by the Tsar's court.
In the 11th century, the Byzantine Emperor Basil II captured the fortress after the collapse of the First Bulgarian Empire.
The site includes remnants of an ancient water supply system once used to sustain the inhabitants during sieges.
Recent digs have unearthed over 500 Byzantine-era coins and various ceramic artifacts in the lower layers of the site.
Samuel's Fortress is a prominent medieval fortification located on the highest point of Ohrid Hill, overlooking Lake Ohrid. It served as the capital and seat of Tsar Samuel during the First Bulgarian Empire in the 10th and 11th centuries. The structure features a perimeter of approximately 3 kilometers of defensive walls and multiple towers. Much of the current masonry dates to various reconstruction phases, most significantly a major restoration completed in 2003. Visitors can access the ramparts to walk along the top of the walls, which provide an aerial perspective of the Old Town and the lake. Archaeologists have identified layers of ancient Hellenistic and Roman fortifications beneath the medieval ruins. It remains one of the largest preserved citadels in North Macedonia.
The northernmost corner of the wall provides the clearest panoramic view of Lake Ohrid framed by the fortress battlements.
Wear athletic shoes with good grip, as the stone stairs on the ramparts can be uneven and steep.
Bring water and sun protection, as there is minimal shade once you begin climbing the perimeter walls.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the intense heat reflecting off the stone walls in mid-summer.
Do not attempt to climb onto the non-restored sections of the outer walls, as they are fragile and pose a significant safety risk.
