Marko Krizin was a 17th-century Croatian Catholic priest, theologian, and missionary. Born in Križevci, he pursued advanced studies in Vienna and Graz before moving to Rome to study at the Pontifical Gregorian University. After his ordination, he served as a rector and canon under the Archbishop of Esztergom. His ministry eventually led him to the region of present-day Slovakia, where he became caught in the religious conflicts between Catholics and Calvinists. He is recognized as a martyr for refusing to renounce his faith during a period of intense political and religious unrest.
Life and death
After completing his education, Krizin served the Diocese of Zagreb before being appointed to lead a seminary. In 1619, he was sent to manage an estate near Košice. During a siege of the city by Calvinist forces, he and two other priests were arrested. Despite being offered property in exchange for converting to Calvinism, Krizin remained steadfast. He was subsequently tortured and executed by beheading in September 1619.
Veneration and legacy
The Catholic Church has canonized Krizin, making him the third Croatian saint. He was beatified in 1905 and formally canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1995. His remains are preserved in locations such as the Basilica of Esztergom and Trnava. He is commemorated on September 7, a date that is marked by annual celebrations in his birthplace of Križevci.