President Zoran Milanović honoured John Martinis, a Croatian-American and Nobel laureate, on Monday. He presented him with the Order of King Dmitar Zvonimir with the Sash and Star, the Presidency announced.
The award was given for contributions to the development and promotion of quantum physics and technology worldwide. The Presidency noted that the award also highlighted Croatian roots and the transfer of expertise to the Croatian academic community.
Martinis received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2025, jointly with John Clarke and Michel Devoret, for work on macroscopic quantum phenomena in superconductors. The award is one of the most prestigious international recognitions for scientific achievement, according to Milanović.
The President said that occasions like this are rare, as few people of Croatian descent have received the Nobel Prize, particularly in the exact sciences. “After many decades, you are the first person of entirely Croatian heritage to receive this highest honour,” Milanović said. He added that Martinis, whose parents are from Vis, has been continuously highlighting Croatia’s positive image through his work. The guest was also wished a happy birthday.
Martinis thanked the President for the award and the invitation, stating that he felt as though he had come home. “I felt very welcome here. I have made many friends and I truly appreciate the effort people have made,” he said. “I miss the community I have in San Pedro, California,” added the Nobel laureate, who resides in that US state.
The ceremony at the Presidency was attended by Croatian Ambassador to Sweden Siniša Grgić, US Ambassador to Croatia Nicole McGraw, and First Secretary of the US Embassy Ross Johnston, alongside the President’s advisors and staff.
