On this day in 879, it was the first time in history that Croatia became an independent state, a Duchy. It’s first native Croatian ruler, Duke Branimir, was recognised by the Pope John VIII, on June 7, 879, in the city of Nin.
During his reign, Croatia obtained its sovereignty from both Frankish and Byzantine rule and became lawfully independent.
A statue in honor of Duke Branimir stands at the bridge in front of Nin town’s lower gate, and is further commemorated on this date as Nin’s Town Day.
