Faust Vrančić Memorial Centre, Prvić
Renaissance inventiveness on the island of Prvić
Lying off Šibenik and served by several daily ferries, the island of Prvić is famous for being the birthplace of Faust Vrančić (1551-1617), one of Croatia’s most inspirational Renaissance scholars.
Located just above the harbour at Prvić Luka, the Faust Vrančić Memorial Centre is a hugely enjoyable introduction to the man’s work.
As well as being the compiler of Croatia’s first ever dictionary, Vrančić ws the Da Vinci-esque inventor of all manner of contraptions - windmills, bridges, waterwheels and wagons – models of which are on display here.
He also devised a parachute made from a square of sail fabric – later writers maintain he tested it by jumping from a tower in Venice, although there were no contemporary witnesses. There’s also a delightful film dramatizing the early life of young Faust on Prvić.
May 1 - Sept 30: Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 16:00
Oct 1 - April 30: Monday - Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Tickets: adults €5, children €3
Ferries: depart from Šibenik to Prvić Luka 3-4 times a day and take 40 minutes. Timetables here.