Hvar Arsenal & Theatre
Arsenal i Hvarsko kazalište
A Venetian-era warship dock by the harbour. Upstairs is one of Europe's earliest public theatres, opened in 1612.
The Arsenal was built between the 14th and 16th centuries. Its large arched bays were once a dock where Venetian warships came in for repairs. It faces the harbour and is the most striking building on St Stephen's Square. In 1612, the grain store upstairs was converted into a theatre open to people of every social class. It is considered one of the earliest public theatres in Europe, and its small Baroque boxes, rebuilt in the 19th century, survive today. The building now houses exhibitions and theatre tours, and tickets cost about 5 to 10 euros. The Belvedere terrace in front of the building offers views over the harbour. It stands at the southwest corner of the square.
Opening hours
Summer about 09:00–21:00; shorter in winter
Nearby sights
- St Stephen's Square & Cathedral, Hvar
- Hvar Island
- Benedictine Convent, Hvar
- Fortica (Spanish Fortress), Hvar
- Franciscan Monastery, Hvar
- Fort Napoleon, Hvar
- Hula Hula Beach Bar
- Milna, Hvar