Benedictine Convent: Hvar's Agave Lace Legacy

The Benedictine Convent of Hvar, officially the Benedictine Monastery and Church of St. Anthony the Abbot and John the Baptist, holds a special place in the island's cultural and spiritual landscape. Established in 1664 in the former home of the Renaissance poet Hanibal Lucić, the convent was founded when two nuns arrived from the island of Pag. Bishop Milani was instrumental in bringing the nuns to Hvar.Inside the convent's walls, the nuns have dedicated themselves to prayer, education, and the preservation of traditional crafts. Notably, from 1826 to 1886, the Benedictine sisters operated a girls' elementary school, contributing significantly to the education of young women on Hvar.The convent is best known for its intricate agave lace. This delicate art form involves extracting thin fibers from agave leaves, processing them into fine threads, and then knotting or weaving them into unique patterns. The process is demanding, requiring specific weather conditions and exceptional skill. The agave lace of Hvar is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Examples of the lace can be viewed within the convent, alongside a collection of artwork, paintings, and liturgical items.Visitors can reach the convent by walking through the main city gate and ascending the stone stairs in the old part of Hvar Town.