Skopje, 9 October 2025 (MIA) - Vlen's Chair mayor candidate Izet Mexhiti presented Thursday the project for revival of the Old Skopje Bazaar and tourism development as the municipality's economic engine.

Mexhiti told a press conference the Old Bazaar is more than a trade area, "it is the living history of Skopje, the soul of the city and the heart of Chair."

"It is our duty not only to protect this priceless pearl but also turn in into a top travel destination in Europe. Our vision is to turn the Old Bazaar into a prosperous hub of culture, tourism and economic," said Mexhiti.

His programme for revival of the Old Bazaar includes five steps - capital investments to bring back its authenticity, digital transformation for modern tourism, standards for every visitor, protection of the bazaar's pearls, and construction of an underground car park.

The first step encompasses the rehabilitation of the cobblestone streets and the exterior walls of bazaar shops while maintaining their original look, as well as investments in street lighting.

The digital transformation involves putting interactive smart info-boards and free wi-fi for all visitors, a virtual museum and a mobile app with interactive maps and background story on every building in the area.

Regarding the standards for every visitor, public toilets will be built in the area, fully adapted for persons with disabilities and maintained on a daily basis.

The programme also includes protection of the Old Bazaar's pearls - Kurshumli An, Kapan An, Suli An, Chifte Hammam, Daut Pasha Hammam, Shengul Hammam and the Bezisten - through their restoration and international promotion.

The final step is the construction of an underground two-storey car park, which would solve the problem of access to the zone, turning it into an urban hub where history meets European future.

Photo: Izet Mexhiti Election HQ