"Parce mihi, Domine, quia Dalmata sum" are words attributed to Saint Jerome, which can be translated as: "Forgive me, God, for I am a Dalmatian." Saint Jerome (c. 347–420) was born in Stridon, near the border of ancient Dalmatia and Pannonia. Although he wrote several valuable works, his greatest contribution was undoubtedly the Vulgate, the Latin translation of the Bible. Additionally, he was declared a Church Father and Doctor, but beyond his influence on world history, culture, and art, Saint Jerome also holds exceptional significance for Croatian lands.
On April 21, 1453, Pope Nicholas V granted the church of Santa Maria, along with its land, to a group of Croats gathered in the Pious Society of Slavic Hermits of Saint Peter's. The Society soon restored the dilapidated church and dedicated it to Saint Jerome. Despite many tumultuous events, changes, and name alterations, the Society has survived to this day, proudly carrying the title of the Croatian Papal Institute of Saint Jerome in Rome. Today, the Institute hosts priests during their postgraduate studies, and in the past, its scope of activities included not only religious pursuits but also culture and history. Therefore, April 21 was chosen as the date to commemorate the Day of the University Department of History at the Catholic University of Croatia, proudly highlighting the name of its heavenly patron, Saint Jerome.