The Šubić, Draganić, and Vrančić families

The Šubić, Draganić, and Vrančić families are three noble families that had a significant influence on the history and development of Pirovac. The Šubić family, one of the most powerful Croatian feudal lords between the 11th and 14th centuries, laid the foundation for later connections with the Draganić and Vrančić families.

The Draganić family, first mentioned in the chronicles of the city of Šibenik in 1332, gained a significant role in Pirovac by acquiring Zloselo and a large part of the surrounding area, constructing walls and a church, and becoming hereditary counts. Members of the Draganić family held esteemed positions as city officials, judges, lawyers, merchants, diplomats, military colonels of various armies, city captains, fighters against the Turks, shipowners, abbots, deacons, Benedictines, abbesses, but above all, educated and literate individuals, which was rare for past times.

The Vrančić family, originally belonging to Bosnian nobility, received a coat of arms with three golden lilies from Hungarian-Croatian King Ladislaus I of Hungary. They arrived in Šibenik as nobles. Antonio Veranzio (Antun Vrančić), a member of this family, served as a diplomat in Turkey, France, and England during the 16th century. The family also made a significant contribution to culture and science, with Faust Vrančić being one of the most prominent members, known for his work in the field of inventions and linguistics.

Together, these families shaped the history of Pirovac, leaving a lasting mark on its cultural and social heritage. Their interconnectedness and influence on the local community are reflected in numerous documents, artworks, and architecture that still testify to their importance for this part of Croatia.