Djelovanje franjevaca u Bosni i Hercegovini za prvih šest viekova njihova boravka I-III (pretisak iz 1881)

1,581 The Activities of the Franciscans in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the First Six Centuries of Their Residence by Fr. Mijo Vjenceslav Batinić (reprinted in 1881) is one of the key works for understanding the history of Bosnia Srebrena. In three volumes, Batinić systematically presents the historical development of the Franciscan community from the arrival of the first missionaries in the 13th century to the beginning of the 19th century. The first volume covers the period of the Vicariate (1235–1517), the second the period of the Province (1517–1699), and the third the final period of the Province (1700–1835). It is based on extensive archival material, old chronicles, charters, Roman documents, and internal documents of the Order.

Batinić emphasizes the key role of the Franciscans in preserving the Catholic faith, education, and cultural tradition, especially during Ottoman rule when, despite persecution and restrictions, they managed to maintain parishes, develop education, and mediate between the population and the authorities. In addition to their pastoral duties, the Franciscans were diplomats, teachers, scribes and guardians of identity, and their role was the foundation of the stability of the Catholic community.

In the afterword, Fr. Robert Jelić provides a biography of the author, from his childhood in Fojnica to his rich priestly and scientific career. Batinić, a lover of Latin and history, was shaped by his studies in Bosnia, Italy and Đakovo, and his stay in Rome gave him access to archives that became the basis of his historical research. Along with other works, Batinić's The Work of the Franciscans stands out as an indispensable source for any study of the Franciscan and general history of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The author died in 1921 in Fojnica, leaving behind a lasting scientific legacy.