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Bay of Bones: A Journey into Prehistoric Life on Lake Ohrid

Step back in time at the Bay of Bones on Lake Ohrid, a unique prehistoric pile-dwelling reconstruction offering a glimpse into Bronze Age life.

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The Bay of Bones, or 'Museum on Water,' is a captivating archaeological site and open-air museum on Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia. It features a reconstructed Bronze Age settlement built on stilts above the water, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who inhabited the region between 1200 and 700 BC. Visitors can explore replica dwellings, examine artifacts, and even dive to see the original settlement remains.

A brief summary to Museum „The Bay of Bones“

  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on wooden platforms and uneven surfaces.
  • Bring cash in Macedonian Denar (MKD) for tickets and souvenirs, as card payments may not be widely accepted.
  • Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Monastery of Saint Naum for a full-day excursion.
  • Consider booking a boat tour from Ohrid for a scenic approach to the museum.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Ohrid, take a bus towards Sveti Naum. These buses typically stop at the Bay of Bones. The bus ticket costs approximately 60 MKD (1 EUR). Check with your accommodation for the current bus schedule, as it can be unreliable.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Ohrid to the Bay of Bones costs around 16 EUR. Negotiate the price beforehand. Some taxis offer a combined trip to the Bay of Bones and the Monastery of St. Naum.

  • Boat

    During the tourist season, boat tours from Ohrid to Sveti Naum often include a stop at the Bay of Bones. Inquire about boat tours at the Ohrid harbor. Expect to pay around 1500 MKD (€25.00) for a small boat tour.

  • Driving

    Drive south from Ohrid along the P1301/P501 towards Albania. The Bay of Bones is located approximately 16km south of Ohrid, near the village of Pestani. Parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Museum „The Bay of Bones“

The Bay of Bones is an archaeological complex near Gradishte and Pestani, along the Ohrid coast, representing a partially reconstructed pile-dwelling settlement dating back to 1200 to 700 BC. This 'Museum on Water' provides an immersive experience into prehistoric life, showcasing how the Encheleans, part of the wider Illyrian culture, lived. The original settlement occupied 8,500 square meters, featuring dwellings constructed on a wooden platform supported by thousands of piles anchored to the lakebed. The museum features 24 replica houses, offering insight into the daily lives of the people who lived in this community. Excavations, which took place between 1997 and 2005, uncovered numerous artifacts, including tools, ceramics, and animal remains. The name 'Bay of Bones' is derived from the animal bones and fragmented vessels discovered at the site, indicating a well-developed settlement. Visitors can walk around the reconstructed village, explore the dwellings, and view artifacts in the museum. Divers can explore the underwater site with the Amfora Dive Company. A Roman fort reconstruction sits on the cliff head north of the Bay of Bones and is included in the museum ticket.

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