Stari Grad Plain: A Timeless Agricultural Landscape

Stari Grad Plain, also known as Ager, is a cultural landscape on the island of Hvar, Croatia, that has remained largely unchanged since its initial colonization by Ionian Greeks in the 4th century BC. This fertile plain stands as the largest agricultural area on the Adriatic islands and a testament to ancient Greek farming practices.The landscape is characterized by a geometrical division of land into parcels (chora), bordered by dry stone walls that have been meticulously maintained over the centuries. These walls, along with stone shelters called trims and an ancient water collection system, showcase the ingenuity of the early settlers in managing the land. The original agricultural activities, primarily the cultivation of grapes and olives, continue to this day, bearing witness to over 2400 years of uninterrupted agricultural use.Visitors to Stari Grad Plain can explore the ancient landscape by foot, bicycle, or car, traversing the network of paths that wind through the fields. Along the way, remnants of ancient structures, including a Roman villa and the remains of Greek fortifications, can be discovered. The nearby town of Stari Grad offers charming cafes and restaurants where visitors can savor traditional Croatian cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced produce. The plain is not only a historical site but also a living landscape where the traditions of the past continue to shape the present.