Wherever you go in Croatia, there is absolutely no way you could avoid the name of Marko Marulić. A glorious monument in Split, a memorable face on a 500 Croatian Kuna bill, and an official title of the father of Croatian literature – all dedicated to one of the biggest names in the national literature of Croatia.
Born in the 15th century to a family of nobles in Split, he grew up with seven siblings and finished his elementary education in Split. Afterward, he moved to Padova, Italy, where he pursued his education in mostly law and administration. His work was widely recognized, allowing him to travel often to Venice and Rome.
His private life is still a mystery to this day, and not many documents were found that can witness the course of his lifetime.
His literary work consists of Latin and those written in Croatian. The sacral theme of almost all of his work shows us his devotion to religion, and probably the crown of his career is the epic „Judith“ inspired by the Biblical story of Judith beheading Holofernes.
Besides the religious atmosphere in his books, Marulić is known for his patriotic spirit which he always highlighted through his art. The national pride part of that was mostly inspired by the attacks of the Ottoman Empire towards Croatia and especially Dalmatia.
Marko Marulić passed away in 1524. and left his nation an inheritance of immense value.
Legend says, if you make a wish while holding a hand on the toe thumb of his monument in Split, your wish will come true!
So why don’t you try your luck while on staycation in Split?
