Cathedral of St. Stephan’s – Hvar
Hvar, a picturesque island in the Adriatic Sea, is famous not only for its charming landscapes, but also for its rich history and monuments. One of the most important places on the island is the Cathedral of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, an impressive religious building that has been attracting both pilgrims and art and history lovers for centuries.
The cathedral, dedicated to St. Stephen, deacon and martyr, is the patron saint of the diocese of Hvar and the city of Hvar. It is located in the city’s central square, Trgu sv. Stjepana (Market Square), constituting the religious and cultural heart of this picturesque community.
The history of the cathedral dates back centuries, when this place functioned as the church of the Benedictine Abbey of Marije od Lesne. However, some historians claim that it only became a cathedral in the 13th century, when the bishop moved his seat from Stari Grad to Hvar.
During its history, the cathedral has undergone various reconstructions and reconstructions. In 1571, during the Turkish invasion, the building was seriously damaged. Reconstruction works that lasted for many years led to the final reconstruction of the cathedral. In 1703, Bishop Rajmund Asperti consecrated the reconstructed temple.
The interior of the cathedral is as impressive as its exterior architecture. In the chapel of St. Cross a small Gothic crucifix is kept in the southern nave of the cathedral. According to legend, on February 6, 1510, on the feast of St. Dorota, the crucifix was covered with blood, which was considered a sign calling the inhabitants to repentance and reconciliation.
Cathedral of St. Stephen is also the place where the relics of St. Stephen are kept. Prospero, which were brought from Rome by Bishop Ivan Andreis in the 17th century.
Cathedral of St. Stephen’s Church in Hvar is not only a place of prayer, but also a treasure trove of history, art and holy relics that attract numerous visitors and constitute an important element of the cultural heritage of the island of Hvar.
