We left Split on the morning Krilo Ferry to the island of Hvar. The island is overrun with vacationers in the summer, but on this pleasantly warm, cloudless day the crowds were not to be found. We first visited the Franciscan Monestary where in addition to artifacts they had Renaissance paintings, including a large depiction of The Last Supper. In the garden was a Cypress Tree that is reported to be over 500 years old. A walk along the promenade tempted us with beaches and crystal clear water which we decided to sample after seeing the town. Next stop was St. Stephen’s Square, the heart of the small town with of course St. Stephen’s Cathedral at one end and a large plaza in front going right to the water. Europe’s first commercial theater (circa 1614) is located on the square as well. Then a walk past the Benedictine Convent where the nuns make lace out of Agave fiber, and finally the long walk up to the hilltop Hvar Fortress. Joan took the opportunity for some rays before our hike down. As we promised ourselves we took the delightful plunge in the Agean Sea before happy hour and dinner, all of which were outdoors.
