PHOTO: President Milanović at the 160th anniversary of the Viška boja

President Zoran Milanović participated in the commemoration of the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Vis on Monday, marking a significant moment in Croatian history. The event took place on the island of Vis, where the president laid a wreath at sea aboard the Croatian Navy ship Hrvatske ratne mornarice. He was joined by other dignitaries, including the extraordinary and authorized ambassador of the Republic of Austria, Yvonne Tončić-Sorinj, and the mayor of Vis, Hrvoje Mratinić. The Battle of Vis, historically known as the “Vis battle,” occurred on July 20, 1866, during the Austro-Prussian War. It marked the first instance in history where naval forces operating on steam power clashed at sea, signifying a technological turning point in maritime warfare. Despite being outnumbered by the Italian fleet, the Austrian navy achieved victory, with key contributions from Croatian sailors. This outcome played a crucial role in dispelling long-standing Italian claims over Dalmacia and contributed significantly to the awakening of national consciousness in the region during the mid-19th century. President Milanović emphasized the importance of the 160th anniversary as a pivotal moment in Croatia’s historical narrative. He noted that had the Italians won the battle, their ambitions might have extended from Zadar to Dubrovnik, altering the course of Croatia’s nation-building process. “Without the formation of a Croatian political nation in Dalmacia, Croatia would not exist,” he stated, underscoring the significance of the battle in shaping modern Croatia. He expressed particular pride in honoring the contributions of Croatian sailors who fought alongside the Austrian navy. The ceremony included participation from several notable figures, such as the president of the City Council of Vis, Roko Brajčić, the representative of the Split-Dalmatia County Governor and head of the county's tourism section, Tonči Sanader, the mayor of Komiza, Ivica Vitaljić, and the military envoy of the Republic of Austria in the Republic of Croatia, Brigadier Jure Johann Bauer. Among the attendees were retired Austrian sailors dressed in historic uniforms, along with numerous cultural and local representatives from the areas of Vis and Dalmacia. Also present were high-ranking officials, including Bartol Šimunić, head of the President’s Cabinet, Nikša Peronja, the President’s advisor on relations with local and regional self-governance, and Commodore Damir Dojkić, commander of the Croatian Navy. The event highlighted the enduring legacy of the Battle of Vis and its continued relevance in fostering national identity and historical awareness.