The human-like pillars
Like wedding guests standing.
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The Stone Dolls of Kuklica are a group of natural rock pillars near the small village of Kuklica, in the municipality of Kratovo in northeastern North Macedonia. They resemble standing human figures, number over a hundred and range from 2 to 9 m in height, according to sources. They formed through erosion of volcanic rock over a long period, and sources differ widely on their age. The local story is better still: a young man loved two girls and promised to marry both, the disappointed one cursed him, and the couple and their guests turned to stone. It is a legend told by villagers, and it explains the name, which means «the dolls». An easy path runs between the groups, with single pillars and clusters like rows of guests, some topped by round stones resembling heads. Coloured hills and green trees lie behind them, and a small timber visitor building stands nearby. Pictures are finest when the sun is low in the morning or before sunset. It is 11 km in a straight line from central Kratovo, and we know of no regular transport, so take a car or taxi. Do not climb the pillars, which are fragile and may shed stones. The site is partly exposed, so bring a hat and water in summer. About an hour is enough, then carry on to Kratovo.
Like wedding guests standing.
Between the rock groups.
A fine photo backdrop.
Kuklica village, west of Kratovo
A local legend says a wedding party was turned to stone by a jilted girl's curse, while science credits erosion.
By car or taxi from Kratovo, as we know of no regular transport.