Vrboska

The settlement of Vrboska with 480 inhabitants has stretched itself out in a deeply cut bay on the north coast of the island of Hvar. The Adriatic meanders through Vrboska like a small river and divides the town center, which has formed close to the harbor. During a tour of the city, the next thing to attract your attention will be the charred stone facades of some houses. These marks were made by a fire in 1510, when the inhabitants set fire to their city themselves. The parish Church of Sveti Lovro (Saint Lawrence) from 1571 is also very striking. Rebuilt in the 17th century in the Baroque style, this church appears in the simplest of garbs. Its interior is all the more impressive because one of the most valuable art collections on the island of Hvar is displayed here. The collection includes handicrafts and ironworks, a 150-year-old organ and paintings by the Venetian artists Titian, Cagaliarija and Bassano. A special feature is the triptych which was either done by Titian or Veronese - experts still argue about who the creator was. Above the village sits the Church of St Marija from 1575, which was part of the walled city built to protect themselves from attacks from the Turks. In addition to its historical attractions, Vrboska provides its visitors with a varied program of sports, events and local gastronomy. Swimming can be done near the center and along the rugged north coast of Vrboska.