On Friday, the Society of University Lecturers and Other Scientists in Zagreb hosted the presentation of Legatum Pro Anima, a commemorative volume dedicated to the late Professor Marko Petrak of the Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb. A distinguished academic, researcher, and expert in Roman law, Professor Petrak held numerous positions in national scientific and ethical bodies throughout his career. His unexpected passing on 17 January 2022 left a profound void in both his family and the academic community.
The volume was edited by Professors Tomislav Karlović and Elizabeta Ivičević Karas of the Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb, with reviews by Emeritus Professor Dalibor Čepulo and Academician Nella Lonza. Marking the occasion, Faculty of Law Dean, Professor Ivan Koprić, reflected on Petrak’s outstanding professional contributions and remarkable personal qualities.
“Marko was reliable, engaged, and deeply committed to his Faculty, the University, and the academic community. He was a devoted advocate for the advancement of Croatian higher education, science, philosophy, and culture. A true friend, keen observer, and trusted advisor, he championed fundamental values and was a cornerstone of our Faculty and University’s stability,” Dean Koprić said. He encouraged attendees to read and cite the volume, emphasising that each reference would honour Prof. Petrak’s legacy.
Emeritus Professor Dalibor Čepulo highlighted the volume’s academic significance, noting its relevance for research, student education, and policy development. He described Legatum Pro Anima as a reflection of Petrak’s intellectual breadth:
“The Renaissance scope of this volume mirrors the vast knowledge and erudition of the late Professor Marko Petrak, spanning law, philosophy, history, classical philology, and other disciplines, as well as his contributions to teaching across multiple faculties.”
In lasting tribute, legal scholars, historians, and interdisciplinary experts – both from Croatia and abroad – contributed 57 papers. These works serve not only as academic resources, but also as expressions of friendship and professional respect.
Speakers at the event included Academician, Distinguished Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Janez Kranjc of the Faculty of Law, University of Ljubljana, and Professor Magdalena Apostolova Maršavelski of the Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb. The discussion was moderated by Professor Siniša Zrinščak, Editor-in-Chief of the Faculty of Law’s Publishing Department.
Professor Marko Petrak was born on 11 April 1972 in Zagreb. After earning his law degree from the University of Zagreb, he joined the Faculty of Law in January 1995 and remained there until his passing. He authored or co-authored five books and textbooks, along with several hundred scientific and professional papers. Throughout his career, he held numerous academic and public positions, collaborated with various universities, and was an active member of the Croatian Academy of Legal Sciences and the Society of University Lecturers in Zagreb. He also served as Editor-in-Chief of the Collected Papers of the Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb and was on the editorial boards of several scientific journals in Croatia and abroad.
Professor Petrak received several prestigious awards and recognitions, including the 2002 Annual Award for Young Scientists and Artists from the Society of University Lecturers, a 2015 special recognition from the Croatian Canon Law Society for his contributions to canon law, and the 2020 Dr. Jadranko Crnić Foundation award for a book of significance in advancing the legal profession.
The commemorative volume Legatum Pro Anima is available for purchase at the Faculty of Law bookshop and via the Faculty’s website.
Photo credit: Foto IPIK
