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St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar

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St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar (Croatia)

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The Cathedral of St. Stephen in Hvar is the most prominent sacred building on the island city, anchoring the eastern end of the Pjaca, the largest square in Dalmatia. Built on the foundations of a 6th-century Christian basilica, the current structure dates primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Its architecture showcases a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles, which is characteristic of the Dalmatian coast. Particularly striking is the elegant bell tower completed in 1550, a masterpiece of local craftsmen that dominates the city's skyline. Inside, the cathedral houses eleven altars, valuable paintings by Venetian masters, and the relics of St. Stephen, the city's patron saint. The cathedral serves not only as a religious center but also as a testament to the wealth and cultural flourishing of Hvar under Venetian rule. Its prominent position at the end of the vast square provides it with a monumental presence within the urban fabric.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Stephen's Cathedral in Hvar is the religious center of the island and is open to visitors. The interior contains significant Renaissance artworks that can be admired during a walk-through.
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Typical hours
Cathedrals in Hvar typically have daily opening hours that align with services. They are usually open to visitors in the morning and afternoon, with a midday break.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed, but without flash or tripod to protect the artworks. The cathedral's exterior view on the main square is a popular photo subject.
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Time needed
Visiting the cathedral itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Those wishing to study the artworks in more detail will need a bit more time.
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Combine with
The cathedral sits on Hvar's main square, surrounded by other historic buildings. Combine the visit with a walk through the old town, the Fortica fortress, and the harbor.
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Getting there
Hvar is accessible by ferry from the mainland (Split, Drvenik) or by catamaran. The cathedral is located in the city center, a few minutes' walk from the ferry terminal.
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Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the late morning when light streams through the windows, highlighting the artworks beautifully. Entry is usually free, but donations are welcome.

Geography

Coordinates
43.17080, 16.44500

Facts

  • The cathedral occupies the site of an earlier 6th-century Christian basilica.
  • The construction of the iconic bell tower was completed in the year 1550.
  • The interior of the church features eleven ornate altars from various periods.
  • The facade displays a distinctive trefoil gable shape typical of the Late Renaissance.
  • Relics of St. Stephen, the patron saint of Hvar town, are kept within the church.
  • The cathedral houses important artworks, including a Madonna by Palma the Younger.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Cathedral of St. StephenCathedral of St. Stephen<1 km · NWExplore →
📍Brusje4 km · NEExplore →
Pakleni Islands (Palmižana)Pakleni Islands (Palmižana)5 km · WExplore →
Stari Grad (Hvar)Stari Grad (Hvar)12 km · EExplore →
📍Sveta Nedjelja12 km · EExplore →
Sveti NikolaSveti Nikola14 km · EExplore →
📍Dol (Hvar)15 km · EExplore →
Stari Grad PlainStari Grad Plain15 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights in the town St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar (10)

Ljetnikovac pjesnika Hanibala Lucića

Summer residence of poet Hanibal Lucić in Hvar, with a garden and sea view.

Muzej Hvarske baštine🏛 museum

Museum in Hvar showcasing the history and culture of the island.

St. Stephen

Church in Hvar dedicated to Saint Stephen.

Palača Radošević

Palace in Hvar from the 15th century, featuring Gothic windows.

Palača Paladini

Palace in Hvar built in the 16th century, with Renaissance elements.

Hvarsko kazalište

Theatre in Hvar, one of the oldest public theatres in Europe.

Muzej Hanibal Lucić🏛 museum

Museum in Hvar dedicated to poet Hanibal Lucić, located in his former home.

sv.Marko

Former Dominican monastery and St. Mark's Church in Hvar.

Fortress Španjola / Fortica🏰 castle

Fortress in Hvar overlooking the town and harbour.

Zvizda mora

Church building in Hvar situated along the coast.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the cathedral located?
At the end of the large main square (Pjaca) in Hvar town.
What is special about the bell tower?
It is considered one of the most beautiful Renaissance towers in Dalmatia.
Can you visit the interior?
Yes, it is open to visitors outside of mass times.
Is there a museum in the cathedral?
Yes, it houses a valuable treasury with sacred art.
Is entry to the church free?
Entry to the church is free; there is a fee for the treasury.
St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar: where is it located?
St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar is located in Croatia.
St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ljetnikovac pjesnika Hanibala Lucića, Muzej Hvarske baštine, St. Stephen.
St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
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History & landmarks

Trogir Historic Center — St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar (Croatia)
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Located on a small island, the old town of Trogir preserves its medieval layout and architecture from Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance…