On July 26, 1963, Skopje, the capital of Yugoslavia, experienced a catastrophic earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale. The earthquake struck in the early morning hours, around 5:17 AM, when many residents were still asleep, leading to a significant number of fatalities. It is estimated that around 1,100 people lost their lives, with thousands more injured, and up to 200,000 left homeless. This natural disaster not only obliterated homes but also key infrastructures, such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings, creating a national crisis within Yugoslavia.

In the aftermath, the city was in ruins, and the scene was marked by desperate rescue operations and international responses. Within days, aid poured in from nations around the world, including significant contributions from the Soviet Union and the United States. The disaster prompted a rapid mobilization of resources, showcasing a global solidarity that was somewhat unusual during the Cold War. As recovery efforts began, architects and planners uncommonly emphasized modernist approaches to urban reconstruction in Skopje, leading to a significant transformation of the cityscape.

The government of Yugoslavia declared a state of emergency, putting forth a massive reconstruction plan that included new housing, schools, and public facilities. The rebuilding process lasted for many years, and the changes affected the cultural and social fabric of the city. A notable aspect of the reconstruction was the focus on anti-seismic construction methods, which were integrated into new buildings to mitigate the risk of similar disasters in the future.