AD Classics: Makedonium / Jordan Grabulovski and Iskra Grabulovski

By Brian PagnottaClick here for the original article on ArchDaily.

In honor of the Ilinden Uprising, the uncanny space-age Makedonium monument and memorial complex was resurrected. Built in 1974 by Jordan Grabulovski and Iskra Grabulovski, the Makedonium is the Macedonian symbol of statehood and modernist expression of freedom.

In 1903, a group of brave Macedonians charged into battle against the Ottoman Empire, sparking a movement that led to the creation of a free Macedonia. As such, the building was built 70 years later on the 30 anniversary of the Anti-Fascist Assembly of the Liberation of Macedonia and the 71anniversary of the Ilinden Uprising.

Looking over the town of Krusevo, the Makedonium appears as a heart valve with 10 enormous stained glass skylights erecting out of its circular base. The visual appearance of the monument complex, which covers 16 hectares, starts with broken chains, continues with a crypt and a colorful mosaic of ceramic material, and ends with the peculiar building.

Architect: Jordan Grabulovski, Iskra Brabulovski

Location: Kruševo, Macedonia

Project Year: 1974

References: travel2macedonia

Photographs: flickruser: vesnamarkoska, flickruser: wi0chmen, flickruser: moeafati, flickruser: markovskavesna