THE VOTING HAS STARTED: STARI GRAD ON CROATIA’S HVAR RUNNING FOR EUROPEAN BEST DESTNATION OF 2017
The voting has started to elect Europe’s best destination for 2017.
As a candidate, Stari Grad will be representing Croatia on Europe’s tourist map for next year, accompanied by 19 other beautiful European cities which are competing for the same award. This year, Stari Grad is in the running with some of Europe’s most famous destinations such as Paris, San Sebastian, Amsterdam, Prague and Athens.
The voting is open from the 20th of January until the 10th of February. In this period you can cast your vote and make our small Dalmatian paradise European Best Destination for 2017!
WHAT MAKES STARI GRAD SO SPECIAL?
The specific beauty of Stari Grad comes from a fusion of Mediterranean nature, crystal clear sea, relaxed island way of life, classic narrow cobbled streets, charming squares, and churches which have been standing their ground for centuries.
As one of the oldest cities in all of Europe, since its foundation 2400 years ago, Stari Grad has developed a uniqueness – from its historical heritage of world importance to the natural beauties of its sea and land.
Historical and UNESCO heritage
In 2008 UNESCO recognised the cultural importance of the old town centre of Stari Grad and the Stari Grad Plain which are both included in its World Heritage List.
Stari Grad is also home to historical remains of great importance – from the Dominican monastery with the oldest Greek inscriptions on Croatian territory, to the Castle of Petar Hektorović with first Croatian inscriptions in stone written in the Latin alphabet, which is, due to its numerous wall inscriptions, considered to be a type of a stone book.
Tourist offer
Beautiful, pure nature, the luxuries of a modern vacation and the town’s history are intertwined to give life to a unique experience. The Stari Grad bay itself has over 40 sandy, pebble and rocky natural bays and beaches. Active vacation lovers will find adventures in riding the bicycle trails in the wider Stari Grad area or exploring the beauty of the Adriatic underwater life through diving adventures.
Anniversary celebration
In September 2016, Stari Grad celebrated the 2400th anniversary of its foundation. Many events marked this anniversary; a scientific symposium focused on the anniversary was followed by the maritime heritage festival Days in the Bay with over 30 vintage boats sailing the Stari Grad bay, and a series of concerts, exhibitions, lectures and the local products fair. The president of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar Kitarović, has honoured us with her presence at the celebration.
