Austrian Embassy reacts to vandalism of winter trail markings in North Macedonia

The Austrian Embassy has responded to the vandalism and removal of winter trail marking equipment on the Mt. Titov path in Kodra e Diellit. Out of 112 total poles, more than 45 have been destroyed, damaged, or stolen, with financial damages estimated at a minimum of 8,000 euros.

The markings were part of the ‘Slavkov – Marking Mountain Trails in North Macedonia’ project, which received financial support from the embassies of Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, as well as Skopje Brewery. The project involved local volunteers and small businesses from Tetova and Bogovina.

The Embassy emphasized that the damage poses a direct threat to mountaineer safety, particularly during harsh winter conditions involving snow, fog, and high winds. Police and representatives from Mali Sharr National Park inspected the site on August 19, 2026, to document the damage. Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances and take legal action against those responsible.