Favorable geographic position along with the mild Mediterranean climate and fertile ground have made Hvar island a desirable place to live, even since the prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence found on the island shows that Hvar has been inhabitated since 3500 B.C.
The first known settlement on the island was founded by Illyrians in the 1st millennium B.C., at the location of the current town of Hvar.
The wise ancient Greeks had also recognized the natural advantages and strategic potential of the island and decided to build colony at the location of today's town of Stari Grad.
The ancient settlement of Pharos had been founded in the 4th century B.C., and soon became a venue of the first known naval battle on the Adriatic, between the natives and the colonizators.
Through the centuries of turbulent history, rulers had changed several times, and the island thus had been upgrading its historical and cultural identity.
There are many traces of old Greek, Roman, old Croatian and Venetian influence in this area.
In the 18th and 19th century, Hvar was alternately under the Austrian and the French rule.
In the late 19th-ies, after the Austrians took over, the town of Hvar had flourished in many ways and became important political and touristic center. The first meteorological station in Croatia was founded in 1858. and had contributed the promotion of the island tourism as well.
After the Second World War, Croatia became federal part of Yugoslavia. Since 1992. Croatia has been officially independent and Hvar gets a new role in territorial organization of the country.
The Hvar Heritage Museum - The headquarters of the Museum is placed in a summer residence of the famous Croatian poet and playwright, Hanibal Lucic. Visit the library, the poet's Reception Room, the Natural History Cabinet, and explore the Croatian State Archives.
The Fortress of Hvar - The Fortress was built on a hill upon Hvar in the 16th century, during the Venetian rule. This impressive building, which dominates over the city, preserves a valuable collection of amphorae and some other items from the ancient times. Climb up and enjoy the astonishing view of Hvar and Paklinski Islands.
Grapceva Cave and Marko's Cave - Visit the most significant archaeological sites on the island. Typical objects of painted pottery found there originate from the ancient Hvar Culture (3900 - 3300 B.C.).
