Hvar town

Hvar town, located approximately 15 km from Stari Grad on the western end of the island, is the largest and oldest settlement on the island.  Nestled in a cove protected by the Pakleni Islands, Hvar has a year round population of about 3600, but in summer is a tourist mecca.  A Roman settlement dates to the 3rd century BC.  In the 13th century a town citadel was constructed on top of the main hill overlooking the harbor.  Numerous other historic buildings were added over the centuries including a western town gate with a tower intiated by the writer Marin Gazarovac in 1625 and a Franciscan monastery in the 1800's, and a theatre house in 1612 which is noted as one of oldest in Europe.  Numerous recreational facilities are available in Hvar as well as excellent restaurants and frequent festivals, especially during the summer months.