There are many reasons to go to Skopje, capital of Macedonia. I would put on the list the Byzantine churches, the Ottoman architecture, a rich collection of costumes in the National Museum, the unique donations of both buildings and art…

Those who know the island urge “go before it is spoilt”. What is it about our fascination with failed states that have kept their people in poverty and fear? It is a sort of voyage voyeurism. What indeed will happen…