Tvrdalj Castle is a well-preserved Renaissance palace that was built in the 15th century but is best known for its alterations and ownership under Petar Hektorović, a famous Croatian Renaissance poet, in the 16th century. It was during Petar's time in the castle that the building was fortified, expanded and became a sanctuary to travellers, locals in times of war, religious women, animals and plants. Both he and building are rather fascinating and extraordinary. Just find a vacation rental in Hvar and spend some time exploring and learning about this wonderful building and its incredible history.
Built across one storey, the building surrounds a fishpond that was created as a habitat for grey mullet, with a system to ensure a fresh supply of seawater. Above this is a small tower that has a dovecot for birds, and a garden with flowers and trees for land animals and an area in which herbs and medicinal plants were cultivated.
Built across one storey, the building surrounds a fishpond that was created as a habitat for grey mullet, with a system to ensure a fresh supply of seawater. Above this is a small tower that has a dovecot for birds, and a garden with flowers and trees for land animals and an area in which herbs and medicinal plants were cultivated.
Hektorović notes in his records of the construction that the fishes in the pond were intended as symbols of Christ and the doves of the holy spirit.
This idyllic place was interrupted in 1571 when the town was attacked and Tvrdalj was set on fire by the Turks. A year later, Petar died and the damaged property was divided between his relatives. However, according to the provisions in his will gradual improvements were required and this helped preserve and protect the structure.
Sadly, laws changed in the 19th century and the south wall of the complex was removed, vaults were constructed around the pool, a second floor was added on both sides of the tower, and new two-storey houses were built.
In the 20th century, the eastern wall was demolished and houses built over the vault and cistern which is still part of the Tvrdalj entrance.
This idyllic place was interrupted in 1571 when the town was attacked and Tvrdalj was set on fire by the Turks. A year later, Petar died and the damaged property was divided between his relatives. However, according to the provisions in his will gradual improvements were required and this helped preserve and protect the structure.
Sadly, laws changed in the 19th century and the south wall of the complex was removed, vaults were constructed around the pool, a second floor was added on both sides of the tower, and new two-storey houses were built.
In the 20th century, the eastern wall was demolished and houses built over the vault and cistern which is still part of the Tvrdalj entrance.
Despite all of this, the beautiful castle and the ideas that transformed it still remain at the core of the structure. Petar Hektorović's Tvrdalj is open for visitors from May to October.
Call +385 (0)21 765 068 for more information and make time for this peaceful gem while you spend time in Hvar.
Call +385 (0)21 765 068 for more information and make time for this peaceful gem while you spend time in Hvar.
Photo credits
picture 1: F.G. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 2: F.G. / CC BY-SA 3.0
picture 1: F.G. / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 2: F.G. / CC BY-SA 3.0
