Hvar Cathedral (Cathedral of St Stephen)

There’s no better place to take in the essence of Hvar than in its main plaza while admiring the Cathedral of St Stephen. Set upon a backdrop of green hillside, the church you see today was built between the 16th and 17th centuries, with elements of an even older church still preserved inside. 
Though the cathedral boasts a relatively humble interior, it is noted for its attractive altars, late Renaissance paintings, and 15th-century wooden choir stalls. For most, though, it’s the exterior that really leaves the biggest impression, with its scalloped rooftop and four-story, 17th-century bell tower that both grandly watch over the expansive limestone plaza that rolls out to the Adriatic Sea.

Practical Info

Though Hvar may be warm and waterside, note that women may be expected to cover up their shoulders in order to enter the cathedral. Take advantage of your central Hvar location to check out other city sights, including the hilltop fortress, and the Arsenal, a naval building-turned-theater. The island of Hvar is an easy day trip from Split. Ferries will take you to the town of Stari Grad or to the ferry terminal in Hvar town, which is a short walk away from the plaza and Hvar Cathedral.