Crkva sv. Petra u Starom Gradu

Crkva sv. Petra Mučenika is the church of the Dominican monastery in Stari Grad on the island of Hvar, Croatia. The complex ranks among the town's most significant monuments, in a place that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage landscape together with the Stari Grad Plain.

What is the monastery of St. Peter the Martyr?

The Dominican monastery (Dominikanski samostan sv. Petra Mučenika) was founded in 1482 by a nobleman from Piacenza, Italy. It is dedicated to St. Peter of Verona, a thirteenth-century Dominican killed for his faith, which explains "Martyr" in the name. The church stands on the street Kod Sv. Petra, close to the waterfront, and is an easy walk from the harbour.

What is its history?

In 1571 the buildings were damaged during an Ottoman attack. Afterwards the monastery was strengthened with a defensive tower, giving the whole complex a partly fortified look. That was a common pattern along the Adriatic, where monks and neighbours alike needed refuge from raids by sea. The church itself was rebuilt in 1896, and its present appearance dates from that work.

Who is buried here?

The church holds the tomb of Petar Hektorović, a leading Croatian Renaissance poet, together with that of his mother Katarina. Hektorović lived in Stari Grad, and his fortified summer house Tvrdalj, a short distance from the monastery, is now among the town's most visited sights. Seeing both is a good way to grasp the literary heritage of the island.

What can you see inside?

The altars display works of art, including a painted wooden Renaissance crucifix. A small museum attached to the monastery shows archaeological finds, among them Greek and Roman coins, plus a collection of icons. The best-known piece is a Lamentation of Christ attributed to Tintoretto.

Is it worth a visit?

Yes, if you enjoy history, sacred art and the quieter corners of Stari Grad. A visit is short and combines well with a stroll through the narrow old-town lanes and a stop at Tvrdalj. The visitor section usually charges an entrance fee and opening times vary by season, so check current details locally or at the tourist office before you go.

Frequently asked questions

When was the monastery founded? In 1482, by a nobleman from Piacenza.

When was the church rebuilt? In 1896.

Who is buried in the church? The poet Petar Hektorović and his mother Katarina.

Why is there a tower at the monastery? It was added after the damage of 1571 to improve the defences.

Is there a museum? Yes, with archaeological finds, coins and icons, and a painting attributed to Tintoretto.

How do I get there from the centre of Stari Grad? On foot: walk from the harbour towards Kod Sv. Petra; it takes a few minutes.