St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hvar Island Travel Guide

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Discover Hvar's captivating history and art at St. Stephen's Cathedral, a stunning blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Dalmatian architectural styles.

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St. Stephen's Cathedral

St. Stephen's Cathedral, or Katedrala sv. Stjepana, is a prominent landmark in Hvar Town, gracing the eastern side of the main square. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, it showcases a blend of Renaissance, Mannerist, and early Baroque styles. The cathedral stands as a testament to Hvar's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to St. Stephen's Cathedral

Trg Sv. Stjepana, Hvar, 21450, HR
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Monday 9 am-12:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-12:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-12:30 pm
Friday 9 am-12:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-12:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-12:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Photography inside the cathedral may be restricted. Check with staff upon entry.
Take time to explore St. Stephen's Square, the largest in Dalmatia, surrounding the cathedral.
Check the schedule for concerts or special events that may be held in the cathedral.
Visit the nearby Episcopal Museum to see a collection of art and historical artifacts.

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Explore St. Stephen's Cathedral on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near St. Stephen's Cathedral, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

St. Stephen's Cathedral is centrally located in Hvar Town on Trg Sv. Stjepana (St. Stephen's Square), making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the Hvar Town waterfront, head towards the main square; the cathedral is the dominant building on the square's eastern side. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

If arriving by ferry or catamaran from Split or other islands, the Hvar Town ferry terminal is a short walk to St. Stephen's Cathedral. Upon disembarking, follow the waterfront promenade towards the town center. Turn into the main square, where the cathedral is located. The walk from the ferry terminal to the cathedral is approximately 5-10 minutes. Ferry tickets from Split to Hvar Town range from €5.84 to €25.
Taxi

Taxis are available at the Hvar Town ferry terminal and can take you to St. Stephen's Cathedral. However, note that the cathedral is located in a pedestrian zone, so the taxi will drop you off at the edge of the square. From there, it is a short walk to the cathedral. A taxi ride from the ferry terminal to the edge of the square typically costs around 160-190kn.

Discover more about St. Stephen's Cathedral

Dominating Hvar's main square, St. Stephen's Cathedral is a captivating blend of architectural styles and historical significance. The cathedral, dedicated to St. Stephen, the pope and martyr, was constructed from the 16th to 18th centuries, with contributions from the citizens of Hvar. It stands on the site of a 6th-century Christian church and a later Benedictine convent.The cathedral's exterior features a striking Renaissance bell tower, considered one of the finest in Dalmatia. The three-aisled basilica's facade reflects a late Renaissance style, symbolizing the Holy Trinity. Inside, visitors can admire a 15th-century pulpit, stone polyptychs, and a late Gothic crucifix. Nine Baroque altars, adorned with paintings by Venetian artists, add to the cathedral's artistic richness. The Madonna painting, dating back to 1220, is a highlight.Located on the eastern side of Hvar's main square, the cathedral serves as a focal point of the town's spiritual life. The adjacent Episcopal Palace houses a collection of art objects, sacred vessels, and archival documents. Visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral offers a glimpse into Hvar's past and a chance to appreciate its artistic treasures.