(1989) MiNr. 2326 ** - Yugoslavia - 400th anniversary of the birth of Ivan Gundulić (1589-1638)

Ivan Gundulić (1589-1638) was an important Croatian poet, playwright and politician from Dubrovnik who became a symbol of Croatian literature and culture. His work represents one of the high points of Baroque literature in Croatia and is still celebrated as crucial to Croatian national identity.

Gundulić came from an aristocratic family and from his youth was involved in the political life of the Dubrovnik Republic, where he became a senator and held several other important positions. This experience inspired his work, in which he often reflected his ideals of justice, freedom and devotion to his country.

Among his best-known works is the epic poem Osman , which is dedicated to the struggle against the Ottoman Empire and the heroism of Croatian soldiers. Osman is full of dramatic imagery and emotional appeals to national sentiment, giving readers both a strong sense of patriotism and universal values. Unfortunately, some of the text was lost, and therefore this work was never fully completed.

Another work is the pastoral play Dubravka , which is an allegory on the ideal of a free Dubrovnik and justice versus peace after peace and harmony. Dubravka contains famous verses that are still familiar to every Croatian today, especially for their profundity and patriotic spirit.

Gundulić's legacy continues to have a significant influence on Croatian culture. His works are studied in schools and his statue in Dubrovnik is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Gundulić's words celebrating freedom and the dignity of man remain an inspiration not only to Croatians, but to anyone who shares the values he expressed in them.