Hvar – UNESCO Island

In this blog, we`ll be writing about the island of Hvar. For many, Hvar Island is known for its “infamous” nightlife. Recently, it has become a place where thousands of tourists flock every summer to party.

But apart from being a well-known party destination, Hvar boasts a rich cultural heritage among which several were recognized by UNESCO and are protected tangible and intangible heritages of the world.

Stari Grad Plain

Stari Grad plain, also known as the Ager, is a field located next to Stari Grad on Hvar Island that has been cultivated continuously for over 2,400 years.

Stari Grad plain, source: TZ Hvar

The ancient Greeks were the first to divide the field into rectangular plots (180 x 900 meters). The plots were bounded by dry walls and intersected by roads and paths leading to individual plots. While conducting the archeological excavations archaeologists found the starting point from which the Greek surveyor began to divide the land. 

Stari Grad plain, source: TZ Hvar

In addition to the remains of the ancient Greeks, the remains of several Roman villas were also found. In 1331, the Hvar statute records the Slavic vineyard owner which testifies to the continuous use of this land throughout the centuries.

Due to the best-preserved cadastral division in the Mediterranean, Stari Grad Plain was included in the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage in 2008.

Dry-stone walling 

In short dry-stone walling is a building method of stone walls without any adhesive material, except sometimes dry soil.

Dry-wall, source: commons.wikimedia.org, author: Joadl

This construction method is common in Mediterranean countries. It was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2018. Hvar Island was singled out because of the Starigrad Plain and the dry walls that were built since the time of the ancient Greeks.

Procession to the Cross

Dating back to the 15th century The Procession to the Cross expresses a unique form of piety, and cultural and religious identity of the people living in a central part of Hvar Island. The Procession has been taking place uninterrupted for over five centuries.

The Procession to the Cross, source: TZ Hvar

As a part of Easter festivities, The Procession to the Cross starts on the Maundy Thursday night. The procession consists of six separate processions which leaves simultaneously from six parishes. Processions move clockwise. They must not meet one another, or according to the local belief great misfortune will happen.

The Procession to the Cross, source: TZ Hvar

During the procession, all six individual processions visit all six churches and end up in the church from which they started.

The procession is led by the cross-bearer holding the cross covered with a black veil. It is a great honor to be a cross-bearer and some wait for over 20 years to get their turn.  

The Procession to the Cross, source: TZ Hvar

During the procession people attending the procession pray and sing psalms and church hymns.

In 2009, the Procession to the Cross was included in the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage list.  

Agave Lace

Lacemaking was widely spread across Western Europe and Mediterranean countries during the Renaissance. Croatia has a long and continuous tradition of lacemaking. 

Agave lace, source: TZ Hvar

Croatia has three lacemaking centers, Lepoglava, the island of Pag, and Hvar Island. Production of lace patterns differentiates in the method of sewing and material from which lace is produced. 

Sisters of the Benedictine monastery produce the lace on Hvar Island. The monastery was founded in 1664. The first sisters came from the island of Rab, bringing the art of lacemaking. 

Agave lace, source: TZ Hvar

The material from which it is produced differentiates this lace from others. Threads needed to make lace are extracted from the agave plant leaves. 

Agave lace, source: TZ Hvar

Threads acquired from agave plant leaves are woven into different patterns. Today, the produced laces are a symbol of Hvar. They were listed on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage in 2009 as a part of Croatian lacemaking.      

Mediterranean Cuisine

In short, Mediterranean cuisine includes a specific way of life in harmony with nature and the use of its resources. It is the basis of people living in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Mediterranean cuisine, source: TZ Hvar

Seasonality characterizes Mediterranean cuisine. This is reflected in preparing food that is in season. Meals include fish, leafy vegetables, legumes, figs, olive oil, fresh spices, etc. 

In this way, the diet consists of fresh and healthy ingredients. 

Mediterranean cuisine, source: TZ Hvar

The Mediterranean diet was included on the UNESCO List of Intangible World Heritage in 2013. Croatia was one of the chosen countries, and Hvar Island was one of the islands representing Mediterranean heritage.  

Klapa Singing

Klapa singing is traditionally "a cappella" polyphonic singing originating from Dalmatia. 

The word Klapa describes a “group of friends”. Indeed at the beginning of Klapa singing, a group of friends would get together, often in a tavern, and sing popular songs.  The tradition of klapa singing as we know it today was formed in the middle of the 19th century.

Klapa singing, source: TZ Hvar

The lyrics of klapa songs are mostly about love and daily life. They are a great testament to everyday life.

In 2012 klapa singing was inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible World Heritage. 

Klapa singing, source: TZ Hvar

Are you convinced to visit Hvar and check out its exquisite UNESCO heritage? If this is the case, check out the following villas. They are ideal starting points for your exploration of this magnificent island.

Where to stay on Hvar Island?

Luxury Villa Golden Hour with Pool

Luxury Villa Golden Hour is a perfect choice for a luxurious vacation on Hvar Island.

Luxury Villa Golden Hour with Pool

This 4-bedroom villa in picturesque Jelsa is ideal for groups of friends or families traveling together. From top to bottom, the villa is equipped with luxury furniture and amenities.

All bedrooms feature a king-size bed, en-suite bathroom, a balcony, and an amazing sea view. 

Luxury Villa Golden Hour with Pool

The beach is located some 60 meters from the villa.

The heated infinity pool and indoor jacuzzi are perfect if you plan to visit Hvar in pre or post-season, which will help you avoid the heat and the crowds. 

Luxury Villa Golden Hour with Pool

Luxury Villa Cliff with Heated Pool

For a perfect summer vacation book Luxury Villa Cliff with Heated Pool. This five-star villa near Stari Grad offers a tranquil oasis only 30 meters from the sea.

Luxury Villa Cliff with Heated Pool

With a living area of 300 m² and four bedrooms, the villa comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests. The outdoor area consists of 270 m² of green and 170 m² of paved area, making it ideal for guests who travel with pets. 

 Luxury Villa Cliff with Heated Pool

The swimming pool has a heating option so you can enjoy it during the pre and post-season. 

Luxury Villa Cliff with Heated Pool

In case you are looking for something else, feel free to check out all our villas on Hvar.

We hope you enjoyed reading our blog and that we convinced you to explore Hvar and its unique UNESCO heritage.