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Saint Stephen's Cathedral: Hvar's Architectural Jewel

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Discover Hvar's spiritual heart at Saint Stephen's Cathedral, a stunning architectural blend on the town's vibrant main square.

Located on Hvar's main square, St. Stephen's Cathedral is a stunning blend of architectural styles, primarily Renaissance and Baroque, with a distinctive 17th-century bell tower. Built on the site of earlier churches, it reflects Hvar's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Saint Stephen's Cathedral

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to see the cathedral beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Note that there is a small entrance fee, and photography inside may be restricted.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Hvar's charming old town, filled with shops and eateries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Saint Stephen's Cathedral is centrally located on Trg Sv. Stjepana (St. Stephen's Square), the main square in Hvar Town. From most points within the town, simply follow signs or directions towards the main square. The cathedral is the most prominent building on the square's eastern side. No costs are involved as the approach is on foot.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving in Hvar by ferry or catamaran, the port is a short walk to St. Stephen's Square. Upon exiting the ferry, head east along the waterfront promenade. The square and cathedral will be visible within a few minutes. Bus services connect Hvar Town with other major hubs on the island, such as Stari Grad and Jelsa. From the bus station in Hvar Town, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the cathedral. Local bus fare is around 30kn.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Hvar Town, especially at the ferry port. A taxi from the ferry port or bus station to St. Stephen's Cathedral is a short ride, costing approximately 50-80kn, depending on traffic and the time of day. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Saint Stephen's Cathedral

Saint Stephen's Cathedral, or Katedrala sv. Stjepana, is the focal point of Hvar Town, standing proudly on the eastern side of the main square. The cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint of Hvar, showcases a harmonious synthesis of Renaissance, Mannerist, and early Baroque styles.The cathedral's history dates back to the 6th century when an early Christian church stood on the site, followed by a Benedictine convent. The current structure largely took shape between the 16th and 18th centuries, with contributions from the citizens of Hvar. The cathedral suffered damage during a Turkish invasion in 1571 but was subsequently restored.The exterior is marked by a beautiful facade and a recognizable Renaissance bell tower. Inside, the three-aisled basilica features a 15th-century pulpit, stone polyptychs, and a late Gothic crucifix. The interior also boasts nine Baroque altars from the 17th century, adorned with works by Venetian artists, including Palma the Younger's painting on the main altar.

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