700 years ago, the most famous traveler in history died. In Italy, he and his book are celebrated with new studies, exhibitions and symposiums. A good opportunity to clarify six popular misconceptions.
It always sounded like a beautiful fairy tale, too beautiful in fact: the son of a Venetian merchant discovers the magical kingdom of China on adventurous trips, becomes a confidant of the great emperor and, upon returning, enchants everyone with his memories. Lots of material for children's books and Hollywood films, but historically on very shaky ground, right? Many people were left with the skeptical theory that Marco Polo had never been to China. One thing is certain: 700 years ago, in January 1324, the famous long-distance traveler died in Venice. Italians celebrate the anniversary with an exhibition at the Doge's Palace, non-fiction books and symposiums. They are certain that they are not celebrating a liar, but rather a role model – and a book that is considered world literature. So what popular misconceptions should we dispel?