is the last proof of the former spacious Pelagonisko Blato (swamp) and on a very limited area in the temporal puddles there still exists endemic fauna. The basic characteristic of the area comes from the fauna representatives from the crab class (CRUSTACEA). The presence of the endemic Pelagonia dragon crab (Chirocephalu pelagonicus) is the main reason for proclaiming this area for Strict Natural Park.  The species are found in this area only, and so far they haven’t been found on any other place in Macedonia, or on any other location on the Planet. According to the European Red List of invertebrate representatives for fresh water ecosystems, these species were included in the endangered species category.

occupies an area of 5.442 ha and is located at 27 km south from Skopje, at the spot where the River of Pcinja penetrates its bed into the Katlanovo Rid (hill), evolving into a short, colorful and extremely beautiful gorge.  This area is characterized by a specific phenomenon of opened crack of geotectonic origin, through which thermal-mineral water is distributed occasionally, producing impressive curtain-like sediments of tuba. The length of the crack is 350 m, and the width of the hole is up to 30 cm. This tectonic hydrothermal phenomenon is a rarity not only on the Balkan Peninsula, but also in Europe. Romans built small open swimming pools here. Traces left behind the massive visits of the spa are reflected in the high number of low chairs of round shape, cut and sculptured in rocks. Covered swimming pools were built during the Turkish rule, and they were called water houses.

The region is abundant with rich cultural heritage: more than 40 churches and monasteries and 350 archeological sites. The St. George’s church from the XI century in the village Staro Nagoricane, the monastery Mala Bogorodica in Matejce, the Karpinski Monastery in the village Drenak, the observatory Taticev kamen, the archeological localities Klecovce and Gradiste are real jewels not only in Macedonia but also in the region.