Miho Pracat – a ship-owner, navigator, merchant and benefactor from Dubrovnik

Miho Pracat (Michael Prazattus, Michele Praz(z)at(t)o, Michele Prazzati, Michaelis Prazzati, Michieglie Praz(z)at(t)i, Michele di Paol Prazatouich, Prazzati) (around 1522- 1607) from the island of Lopud is an example of human persistence. There is a famous story about a lizard which he observed climbing on the wall: the lizard fell twice, but managed to climb the third time. After two failed journeys to the sea, Miho Pracat tried for the third time and managed to get rich. The other story says that during poverty in Spain, Miho Pracat brought a lot of grain and the empire Karlo V (while he was shaving) offered him to choose the award for his good deeds. Miho answered: I am wealthy enough, and I seek no richness; I seek no honors as I am an owner of my ships; I seek no titles as I am a citizen of the Ragusa. However, I wish Your Majesty would give me this towel as a memory to your grace“. This towel is still kept at Parish office on the island of Lopud.