Marco Polo was born in Venice, Italy and was educated for business and language skills by his father, who was a merchant. When Marco's father and uncle traveled to China, Marco accompanied them. They were received by Kublai Khan and asked to return with priests to teach Christianity. On their second journey, Marco went as well and stayed in China for many years, where he helped the emperor and learned Chinese. Their long journey home was difficult, and upon returning to Venice, Marco dictated his adventures to a fellow prisoner, which were published as a book, though initially met with skepticism.