Islam in North Macedonia facts for kids

Islam is one of the main religions in North Macedonia. It is the second largest religion there, right after Orthodox Christianity. In 2017, between 37% and 47% of the people in North Macedonia were Muslims.

Most Muslims in North Macedonia are from Albanian families. There are also smaller groups of Turks and Bosnians. Some Macedonians have also chosen to become Muslims. Most of them follow the Sunni Islam branch, specifically the Hanafi madhhab school of thought.

Who are the Muslims in North Macedonia?

Muslims make up a large part of the population in North Macedonia. Many of them are descendants of people who moved there from Albania. This means their families originally came from Albania. There are also smaller groups of people whose families came from Turkey or Bosnia. Some people who were originally from North Macedonia have also decided to become Muslims.

Most Muslims in North Macedonia follow the Sunni branch of Islam. Within Sunni Islam, they mostly follow a specific set of rules and teachings called the Hanafi madhhab. This is one of the main schools of Islamic law.

Important Mosques in North Macedonia

North Macedonia has many beautiful and historic mosques. These buildings are places of worship for Muslims. They also serve as important cultural and community centers.

Mosques in Skopje

The beautiful Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Skopje.

The Mustafa Pasha Mosque is a famous mosque located in Skopje, the capital city. It was built a long time ago and has a stunning blue dome. The mosque is known for its detailed architecture. You can see special designs on its doors and inscriptions above the main entrance.

A view of Mustafa Pasha's Mosque from the north-western side.

A close-up of a detailed door at Mustafa Pasha's Mosque.

An Islamic inscription above the main entrance of Mustafa Pasha's Mosque.

Mosques in Tetovo

The colorful Šarena Džamija in Tetovo, built in 1438.

In the city of Tetovo, you can find the Šarena Džamija. This mosque is also known as the Painted Mosque because of its colorful decorations. It was built way back in 1438. Its unique style makes it a special landmark.

Mosques in Bitola

The historic Gazi Hajdar Kadi Mosque in Bitola.

The city of Bitola is home to several important mosques. One of them is the Gazi Hajdar Kadi Mosque. Another well-known mosque is the Yeni Mosque. These mosques show the rich history of Islam in the region.

Mosques in Ohrid

The Mosque of Ali Pasha in Ohrid.

The city of Ohrid, famous for its lake, also has significant Islamic heritage. The Mosque of Ali Pasha is an example of the mosques found in this historic city.

Images for kids

• 

  Religious structure of Macedonia by settlements 2002. Muslims (green), Orthodox Christian (blue)

• 

  Yeni Mosque in Bitola

• 

  The Monastir (Bitola) bazaar in 1914.

• 

  Mosques in Bitola