The remains of Heraclea Linkestis (2km from the center of Bitola) are proof of the existence of an ancient town founded by Macedonian King Philip II in the 4th century B.C.

Historically, Bitola was situated on the well known Roman road Via Ignatia, which enabled it to be a relevant economic, administrative, educational, medical, diplomatic and cultural center.

Bitola with over 90.000 citizens is the second largest city in Republic of Macedonia and spreads over area 1.716km2. It is located 630m above sea level 175km from the Capital Skopje, 180km from Thessaloniki and only 15km from the Greek border.

Bitola, a town with a rich tradition and turbulent historic past, today is a regional industrial, economic, educational (University), scientific and cultural center of the South-West part of the Country.

The climate in this region is continental with mild influence of Mediterranean, a lot of sunny days, rich vegetation, and pleasant temperatures in the spring and autumn months. The Average annual temperature is 10OC.

Bitola has a picturesque surroundings and beautiful landscapes, but above all the symbol is National Park “Pelister”, area with exceptional natural beauties, two glacial lakes “Pelister’s Eyes” and five-leaf pine Molika, formations from the tertiary and the Balkan endemic.
Bitola has a rich culture life. Besides The International Film Camera Festival “Manaki brothers” (one of the three festivals in the World dedicated to the directors of photography), several other international festivals are held in Bitola, such are “Interfest” - international festival of serious music, “Heraclea Evenings” - Summer theater and music festival, The International Graphic Triennial, International Children’s Colony “The Small Monmartre of Bitola.