Lake Ohrid is a large lake straddling the mountainous border of Albania and North Macedonia. It is one of the deepest lakes in the Balkans and is over 3 million years old. The town of Ohrid on the lake shore is also one of the oldest human settlements in Europe, with archaeological records showing human presence here since 5000BC. The lake along with its city are both a UNESCO world heritage site for both their natural and historical significance to Macedonia and the Balkans region.

Lake Ohrid and its picturesque town

Clear and refreshing waters of the lake

Ohrid supposedly once had 365 churches – one for every day of the year, which earned it the nickname “Jerusalem of the Balkans”. Among its numerous churches though, the Church of St John at Kaneo was the most picturesque of the churches I visited during my time in Ohrid. Also known as the church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo, it is a 13th century church that sits on a scenic cliff overlooking the beach of Kaneo on the lake. The church was built to honor St John of Patmos, author of the book of Revelations in the Bible. The church itself though is extremely tiny, and it’s dark interior is covered with frescoes of biblical figures and Orthodox patriarchs such as St Clement of Ohrid.

The church is reached by a relatively easy 15 minute hike from the town, with the path gradually gaining in elevation. The best views I found were from further up the hill overlooking the church. This by far was one of the most dramatic and prettiest settings for a church that I have been fortunate to visit – with the stunning scenery of a jewel box like church set against the backdrop of the bluish-green waters of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains.

The Church of St John at Kaneo

Tiny but pretty

Simple brick work facade of the church