Historian and Priest Mile Vidović Dies at 90; Pope John Paul II Granted Him Honorary Prelate Title

Mile Vidović, a historian and priest of the Split-Makarska Archdiocese, died at the age of 90 in a Split hospital. The family confirmed his passing.

Vidović earned a doctorate in theology in 1977 with a thesis on Nikola Bijanković, Bishop of Makarska, specializing in the history of the Church among Croats. He served in various church roles, including head of the Archdiocesan Chancellery in Split, vicar general, and archdeacon of the metropolitan chapter. He also led the "Don Frane Bulić" Archdiocesan Classical Gymnasium in Split.

Before his death, Vidović was working on a book titled "Priests of the Split-Makarska Archdiocese, Victims of World War II and the Post-War Period." He received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Split-Dalmatia County ten years ago for his work as a priest, church historian, and author of numerous books on Croatian church history.

Papa Paul VI bestowed upon him the title of monsignor in 1970, and Pope John Paul II granted him the title of honorary prelate in 1981. His books include "History of the Church among Croats," "Split-Makarska Archdiocese," and "History of the Parishes of the Neretva Valley." Vidović also participated in many historical conferences, with his contributions published in proceedings, and wrote historical articles for various magazines and newspapers. His funeral will be held in Mlinište (Zažablje).