Stari Grad, which means "Old City" in Croatia, was founded by Greek colonisers from the island of Paros in the Aegean Sea in 384BC. They called it Faros. It is one of the oldest continuing settlements in the whole of Europe. It came under Roman control in 168 BC. A large area of Roman mosaics of fine quality were recently unearthed on Srinjo kola (Middle St) during construction of a new sewerage system and are on display.
The town was the administrative capital of Hvar Island until it came under the protection of the Venetians, in the 13th century, when newly built Hvar Town was made the capital.
The Old Town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes Stari Grad plain. There are interpretation panels around the town.
The summer home of Renaissance poet and humanist Petar Hektorović, constructed around an iconic and very photogenic fish pond. It is on the main square. Hektorović also designed the neighbouring church of St Roch.
The parish church, with a detached tower that is a landmark of the town, is a fine example of Dalmatian Baroque architecture.
Founded in 1482. Damaged by the Turks in 1571, it was fortified with a tower. The lovely cloister garden is planted with palms, orange trees, hydrangeas and lavender. A small but interesting museum has fossils, ancient Greek inscriptions, Greek and Roman coins, and religious icons. The star exhibit is Lamentation of Christ, a painting by the famous 16th century Venetian artist Tintoretto. The tomb of Petar Hektorović is near the altar of the church.
There are incredible views at the "White Cross" on Glavica Hill, which you will see from the town centre. You can get there by taking Ul. Ivana Meštrovića, which is the road to the left of the school, which makes a bend into Ul. kralja Tomislava. A signposted path leads off not far after the bend. There is also a path from the road to Rudine, which is easier if you want to go by car.