Hvar Theatre

Hvar Theatre sits on the upper level of the Arsenal, the old Venetian naval building on the harbour square of Hvar town, on the Croatian island of Hvar. It opened in 1612 and is usually described as the oldest communal theatre in Europe, which makes it one of the most unusual cultural landmarks on the Adriatic coast.

Why is the Hvar Theatre special?

Most European stages of the early 17th century were built for courts and noble families. Hvar went another way. The theatre was created as a public space, and accounts of its history stress that it was open to people of every social standing, not only to the local nobility. That idea was remarkable for its time and is the main reason the building is known far beyond Croatia.

Who built it and why?

The theatre was set up in 1612 on the initiative of Pietro Semitecolo, the Venetian governor of the island. At that time Hvar belonged to the Republic of Venice, and its port and Arsenal were important for the fleet of galleys that sailed the Adriatic. The Arsenal was rebuilt, and the theatre was fitted into the space above the ground-floor boat bays. According to some tourist sources, the project also had a social aim: giving nobles and commoners a shared place and easing tension between the two groups.

How old is it compared with other theatres?

Two Italian theatres are older: the Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza (1585) and the Teatro all'antica in Sabbioneta (1588). Both were court theatres, however. For that reason Hvar is called the oldest communal, or town, theatre in Europe rather than simply the oldest theatre. Sources also differ on small details, such as the exact construction date of the Arsenal itself, so treat precise numbers about the building with caution.

What does the building look like today?

The interior seen by visitors dates from a later rebuild in 1803, which is why the theatre is also described as the oldest still-standing theatre in Croatia. The Arsenal facade faces the harbour, with a large arch through which galleys once entered the building. The theatre itself is a small, intimate hall with traditional tiers of boxes and seating.

Can you visit it?

Hvar Theatre went through a long period of closure after the last performance before its renovation, in 2003, because the building was in poor condition. Restoration work followed, and it has been presented as a restored monument. Opening arrangements change, and some sources mention visits by appointment, so check locally before you plan your day around it. The Arsenal is in the very centre of Hvar town, a short walk from the main square and the cathedral, so it is easy to fit into a stroll around the old port.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hvar Theatre really the oldest in Europe? It is widely called the oldest communal theatre in Europe. Older court theatres exist in Italy, so the title depends on how "public" is defined.

When was it opened? In 1612, under the Venetian governor Pietro Semitecolo.

Where exactly is it? In the Arsenal building, on the harbour side of the main square in Hvar town.

Is it still used for performances? Its history includes centuries of performances, but its use today depends on restoration and opening schedules, so confirm current information before visiting.