Stari grad: a guide to the oldest town on the island of Hvar
Stari Grad is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history dating back to ancient Greece. Located in a deep bay in the northwestern part of the island of Hvar, it combines historical heritage, building tradition and the function of a lively sailing port. It is a place where antiquity meets modern life, and the charm of cobblestone streets and stone monuments invites you to take longer walks. With its rich cultural offerings, culinary specialties and numerous attractions, Stari grad is an attractive destination for any traveler.
Location: in a deep bay of the island of Hvar
Stari grad is situated in a picturesque bay that gives the town its unique character. Its location in the northwestern part of the island of Hvar makes it not only a historic harbor, but also a functional sailing port. The town's proximity to the Adriatic Sea and the charm of the island's natural landscapes make it ideal for combining elements of tradition with the possibility of active recreation on the water.
A brief history - from ancient Faros to Stara Grad
The history of Stary Grad begins in 384 BC, when Greeks from the island of Paros founded the settlement of Faros. Even in the early period the area was inhabited by Illyrian communities, as evidenced by remains in the form of stone barrows. In the centuries that followed, the town became part of the Roman Empire, and later there was a role as the center of a bishopric, before significant administrative functions were transferred to the developing Hvar.
During the Renaissance, Stari grad became a favorite summer destination for local nobility, as evidenced by the mansions that were built, such as the summer palace of Petar Hektorovic. The town's transformation, which prepared it to become a prosperous port, was also recognized internationally - in 2008, the Stari Grad Plain was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stari Grad: The Hidden Gem of the Adriatic
Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, enchants visitors with its authentic atmosphere that transports them back in time. As you wander through its narrow streets, the history see...
Tourist attractions - the most important gems of Stari Grad
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Stari Grad Plain (Starogradsko polje)
A unique agricultural system created by the ancient Greeks, with original plots delineated by dry stone walls and traditional "trimi" type huts. -
Petar Hektorovic Summer Palace (Tvrdalj)
A residence designed by the famous Croatian poet, famous for its courtyard surrounded by cloisters and a pond, which was the heart of summer gatherings of the nobility. -
Stari Grad Museum
Located in a historic palace, it presents archaeological, ethnographic and artistic exhibitions, showing the centuries-old history of the city. -
St. Stephen's Church (Sv. Stjepan)
A building with centuries of tradition, which once served as a cathedral, is now part of the historic center of the city. -
Dominican Monastery
A center with a museum containing religious artifacts and liturgical paraphernalia, illustrating religious contributions to the region's history. -
Old Town and narrow streets
A maze of cobblestone alleys where historic stone houses and squares reflect the spirit of an earlier era. -
Waterfront (Riva)
A strolling space, surrounded by gardens of bars and souvenir stands, ideal for evening strolls at sunset. -
Škor Square
A central square dating back to the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries, which gives historical character to the heart of the city. -
Glavica Hill
A 111-meter-high lookout point that offers a panoramic view of Old Grad and the surrounding bays. -
Beaches and natural bays
Approximately 40 natural beaches ranging from pebble beaches to rocky beaches, accessible by bike or scooter rentals, among others. -
Cabal Peninsula and hiking trails
Marked trails leading through small coves and secluded beaches, ideal for trekking and biking enthusiasts.
Weather: Mediterranean climate with thousands of hours of sunshine
As Europe's sunniest island, Hvar features 2,726 hours of sunshine per year. The typical Mediterranean climate ensures warm and mild temperatures for most of the year, making it possible to enjoy the delights of both beaches and strolling through historic streets. Such weather is conducive to outdoor activities, regardless of the season.
The uniqueness of the place - history, tradition and activity
Stari grad stands out from other places due to the extremely rich cultural and historical heritage accumulated over more than 2,400 years. The unique agricultural system of the Stari Grad Plain, listed by UNESCO, coexists with the remains of ancient settlements, Roman administration and medieval religious traditions. The old-world charm, passed down, among other things, through the tradition of klapa singing, and the historic architecture, provide living proof of the imperishability of the culture of the island of Hvar. It is these elements that make Stari grad remain an attractive destination for those who value authentic experiences and close contact with history.
Practical information - sightseeing, transportation and seasonality
Due to the small size of the historic center, Stari Grad is best explored on foot or by bicycle, using the numerous marked walking and bicycle routes. The town can be reached by ferry from Split, by bus and by water cab, allowing for flexible travel planning.
The island of Hvar is popular all year round, but optimal conditions for sightseeing are between May and June and in September, when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller. Detailed information on the opening hours of attractions, such as Tvrdalj Palace and the Stari Grad Museum, is available at local tourist information centers. In addition, local gastronomy offers tastings of regional dishes based on fresh seafood, olive oil and traditional roasting under an iron bell.
