Plaoshnik Archaeological park
Plaoshnik is a significant archaeological site located on a hill overlooking Lake Ohrid. It is best known for the reconstructed Church of Saint Clement and Saint Panteleimon, which stands on the site of an early Christian basilica and the historic Ohrid Literary School, founded by Saint Clement in the 9th century.
The site contains extensive remains of a five-aisled basilica featuring well-preserved floor mosaics with geometric and zoomorphic motifs. The current church, completed in 2002, serves as a symbolic reconstruction of the original structure where Saint Clement was buried, blending historical foundations with modern architectural interpretation.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Stone, Brick, Marble
- Civilization
- Byzantine / First Bulgarian Empire
- Accessibility
- Accessible via paved paths from the Old Town
- Date(s)
- 9th century CE (original), 2002 (reconstruction)
- Condition
- Reconstructed and active religious site
- Original Function
- Monastery and educational center
- Key Figures
- Saint Clement of Ohrid, Saint Naum
Early Christian Basilica
4th-6th century CEThe site originally hosted a large five-aisled basilica. Archaeological excavations have uncovered intricate floor mosaics and baptistery remains, indicating the location was a significant religious center during the late Roman and early Byzantine periods.
The Ohrid Literary School
893 CESaint Clement of Ohrid, a disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius, established a monastery and the Ohrid Literary School here. This institution became the primary center for Slavic literacy, education, and theology in the region.
Ottoman Transformation
15th centuryFollowing the Ottoman conquest of Ohrid, the original church was converted into the Imaret Mosque. During this period, the structure underwent significant modifications, and the tomb of Saint Clement was relocated.
Modern Reconstruction
2000-2002Following extensive archaeological research, the church was reconstructed on its original foundations. The project aimed to restore the site's historical significance as a cradle of Slavic culture and to provide a permanent resting place for the relics of Saint Clement.