The family of explorer and travel writer Marco Polo (Venice or Korčula, 1254 - Venice, 8 January 1324), according to a document from the XV. century, originally from Dalmatia. His father and uncle were merchants who made their way to China, from which they returned as emissaries of the Mongol ruler Kublai Khan, whose capital was in Khanbaliq (Beijing). The Khan begged the Pope to send him learned men to teach in his empire. They set off on their second journey in 1271, accompanying two Dominicans, and Marko joined them on the journey. He became the Khan's confidant, traveled a lot and got to know the different languages and customs of the Far East. After 17 years of service, he was given the opportunity to return, and in 1295 he arrived in Venice.
In 1298, Marco Polo took part in the conflict between Venetian and Genoese ships near Korčula, where he was captured. While in captivity, he told his travel experiences to his friend Rustichello from Pisa, who recorded them in the work "Book of World Wonders", later known as "Million". The book had a great influence, and geographical maps of the Far East were made based on his travelogue for centuries.
(Željka Šaravanja)
