Since ancient times, rivers have drawn people to their banks. They provided water, food, and security—everything needed for life to grow and endure. This is exactly how the city of Bitola was born and developed: around the Dragor River, one of the city’s most recognizable symbols.
The Dragor is formed by two smaller mountain rivers, Diovska and Bratindolska, which collect waters from the slopes of Baba Mountain. Flowing through Bitola for about 4.5 kilometers, the river continues its 25-kilometer journey until it joins the Crna River. Its water level changes with the seasons, shaped by rainfall and underground springs.
Along its course, the Dragor changes character—from a mountain river in its upper reaches to a calmer plains river downstream. This variety has created rich and diverse plant and animal life. In the upper parts, you may even encounter the native Pelister trout, a species unique to this region.
The name “Dragor” is the oldest and most widely used name for the river. Historical documents first mention it in 1636. One of the most accepted interpretations connects the name to the Slavic tribe of Dragoviti, who once lived in this area.
Until the mid-19th century, the Dragor followed an unregulated and unpredictable course. It formed swamps that caused disease, and during heavy rains it frequently flooded the city, leading to serious damage and loss. Over several decades, the riverbed in the central area was gradually regulated. This transformation made it possible to create wide, straight streets, riverbanks, shops, homes, and open markets—shaping the modern face of Bitola.
Near the so-called Black Bridge, an elite residential quarter known as Beylerhane, or the Beys’ settlement, emerged. Further downstream, toward the bridge near the Bezisten, cafés and teahouses flourished in the lively area once known as the “Dembel,” or Lazy Bazaar.
Bridges over the Dragor
From the earliest days of the city, Bitola expanded on both sides of the river. For this reason, bridges were essential. Historical sources confirm that at least two bridges existed as early as the 15th century, built as endowments by Deli Shahin and Sungur Chaush-bey. As the riverbed was regulated, more bridges were constructed. These crossings soon became vibrant meeting points—places of trade, exchange, and daily life. On some of them, shops were even built, turning bridges into lively urban spaces.
Today, as you walk along the Dragor, you are following the same river that shaped Bitola’s past—a quiet witness to centuries of growth, change, and everyday life.