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Church of St. John: A Testament to Stari Grad's Enduring Faith

Explore the ancient Church of St. John in Stari Grad, a historical landmark showcasing centuries of faith and architectural evolution.

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The Church of St. John in Stari Grad stands as the oldest Christian monument on the island of Hvar, with its foundations dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries. This early Christian complex has evolved through various architectural styles, bearing witness to the town's rich history.

A brief summary to Church of St. John

Local tips

  • Take your time to examine the architectural details, noting the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles that reflect the church's long history.
  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the interior mosaics and the play of light through the rosette window.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the historic streets of Stari Grad to fully immerse yourself in the town's rich heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of St. John is located in the heart of Stari Grad, easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the Stari Grad Riva (waterfront), walk inland towards the old town center. The church is situated on Ul. Svetog Ivana, a short distance from St. Stephen's Square and Tvrdalj Castle. The walk is generally flat and takes only a few minutes from the main areas of town.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from other parts of Hvar, disembark at the Stari Grad bus station. From there, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the Church of St. John. Follow the main road towards the town center, then turn onto Ul. Svetog Ivana. Local buses connect Stari Grad with other towns on Hvar, such as Hvar Town and Jelsa. Bus tickets cost approximately 1-3 EUR.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Stari Grad, particularly near the ferry port and bus station. A short taxi ride from the ferry port to the Church of St. John will take about 5 minutes and cost approximately 45 HRK, with a base fare of 15 HRK and 6 HRK per kilometer. Taxi services like Taxi Scorpio operate in Stari Grad and offer transfers to various locations on the island. Several taxi services are available.

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Discover more about Church of St. John

The Church of St. John, nestled in the heart of Stari Grad, represents a captivating blend of history, faith, and architectural evolution. Constructed within the Greek insula, near the ancient city's eastern gate, this church marks the spot where Christianity first took root in Stari Grad. Originally built in the 5th and 6th centuries as a twin basilica with the Church of St. Mary, the complex included a baptistery adorned with intricate mosaics. While the Church of St. Mary exists only in its foundations, St. John's has been continuously adapted and rebuilt, incorporating Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. Inside, visitors can still see remnants of the early Christian era, including the apse, chancel arch, and fragments of the original floor mosaics. The church's interior also features an early Christian altar, reconstructed with original components, and consecrated in recent years. The large rosette on the facade reflects the Gothic-era modifications from the 14th century, while Baroque alterations are also visible. The church's long history is palpable, with each layer telling a story of resilience and devotion. Today, the Church of St. John serves as a powerful reminder of Stari Grad's enduring connection to its past, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the religious and architectural heritage of this ancient town.

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