The old part of town Hvar is overlooked by the impressive Medieval fortress built mostly in the mid-XVI century. It was built on the site of prehistoric Illyrian ruins. Because of its position and its strong walls it has often been a safe haven for Hvar during many historical misfortunes.
Hvar's Cathedral
Hvar's Cathedral, a masterpiece of late Renaissance architecture of Dalmatia, was dedicated to St. Stephen Pope. It took centuries to be built (from the XIII. The eighteenth century.). The interior is magnificent, but in particular its expressive facade stands out, like a theatrical backdrop to the east closing the spacious Hvar piazza of St. Stephen.
Hvar Theatre
The Hvar Theatre is the most important cultural and social symbol of Hvar. Established in 1612 as one of the first community theater in Europe, during its long history it has always been the core for social and recreational life of Hvar - a sort of personification of the pride of the highest cultural reaches of Hvar.
Town Loggia
For the Hvar town Loggia it is said to be the most beautiful in Dalmatia. It was built in early XVII. century as part of the complex of buildings of the Duke's Palace and the Hvar municipal administration. It was initially used as a courthouse and city assembly hall. When at the end of the XIX. century the Duke's Palace was demolished, and in this place was built the Hotel Palace, the Loggia was converted into a cafe. Today, it is a representative town hall which is used for formal public occasions.
Arsenal
The Arsenal building in the square is one of the most monumental of older buildings in Dalmatia and one of the most important monuments of our maritime past. The Arsenal was used for accommodation, repair and storage of ships, especially the Hvar war galleys. Its construction began in the XIV. century, but in its present form it was completed at the beginning of the XVII. century. In 1612 Arsenal becomes the home of the theater, so that also met in one building two different, but for Hvar indicative themes: marine and Dramatic Arts. In 2006. began the thorough restoration of the building Arsenal.
