Benedictine Monastery and Lace Museum Hvar
Discover exquisite agave lace crafted by Benedictine nuns, a UNESCO-recognized art form in a historic Hvar monastery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid rush and closing pressure
Benedictine Monastery and Lace Museum Hvar
Best Time
Avoid rush and closing pressure
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite agave lace crafted by Benedictine nuns, a UNESCO-recognized art form in a historic Hvar monastery.
"Witnessing the incredible handiwork of the nuns was awe-inspiring."
Support the Nuns' Craft
Buy their beautiful agave lace to support their work and heritage. :shopping_cart:
Arrive Early
Visit earlier in the day to avoid feeling rushed by closing times. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Agave Lace Creations
Lace Museum
Witness exquisite handmade lace crafted by nuns from agave plant fibers, a UNESCO-recognized art form.
Historic Benedictine Monastery
Monastery grounds
Explore a serene spiritual site with a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
Julija's Legacy
Museum exhibits
Learn about Julija, the poet's daughter-in-law who willed the property to the Benedictines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Support the Nuns' Craft
Manage Expectations for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Support the Nuns' Craft
Buy their beautiful agave lace to support their work and heritage. :shopping_cart:
Arrive Early
Visit earlier in the day to avoid feeling rushed by closing times. :clock:
Manage Expectations
Explanations can be limited; focus on appreciating the artistry. :art:
Small but Significant
It's a small collection, but the lace is truly unique and awe-inspiring. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Support the Nuns' Craft
Buy their beautiful agave lace to support their work and heritage. :shopping_cart:
Arrive Early
Visit earlier in the day to avoid feeling rushed by closing times. :clock:
Manage Expectations
Explanations can be limited; focus on appreciating the artistry. :art:
Small but Significant
It's a small collection, but the lace is truly unique and awe-inspiring. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the unique beauty and cultural significance of the agave lace made by the Benedictine nuns, recognizing it as a UNESCO-recognized heritage. However, some find the explanations limited and the experience can feel rushed if arriving close to closing, leading to disappointment regarding the value for the entrance fee.
"This monastery is the location of a lace museum: the nuns here earn some cash by making lace. But the lace is made from fibres of the agave plant."
Mat Bienczyk
"It is located since 1664. The great poet Hanibal Lucic's daughter in law Julija willed this place to Benedictines in 1591. There are many things displayed. The nuns have been making laces of agave threads since 19th century which is mentioned in UNESCO's List Of The Intangible Cultural Heritage Of Humanity. The laces are very famous and available for sale but they are expensive."
Balkrishna Shroff
"Off-the-beaten-path treasure. Seeing the incredible handiwork of the nuns was awe-inspiring. Definitely stop in to support them and enjoy their beautiful unique art."
Kim Hannon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is located in Hvar Town. You can typically walk to it from the main harbor area. If arriving by ferry to Hvar, it's a pleasant stroll through the charming streets.
Parking in Hvar Town can be challenging. It's best to explore on foot once you've arrived in town, as the monastery is centrally located. Consider parking further out and walking in.
Yes, taxis are available in Hvar Town and can drop you off relatively close to the monastery. However, walking is often the most convenient way to reach it from the main tourist areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 5 Euros per person. It's advisable to check for any recent price changes upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check locally or upon arrival. Some visitors have noted feeling rushed if arriving close to closing time.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Lace Museum. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
The primary visitor area is the Lace Museum. While it's a functioning monastery, access to the cloistered areas is typically restricted to visitors of the museum and its exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff upon entry. Some areas might restrict photography to protect the delicate lace exhibits.
Focus on capturing the intricate details of the agave lace. The serene atmosphere of the monastery grounds can also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
The best place to purchase authentic Hvar lace is directly from the nuns at the Benedictine Monastery and Lace Museum.
Yes, the lace products are known to be quite expensive due to the intricate handiwork and the use of agave fibers. They are considered high-quality artisanal items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a treasure hunt for beautiful patterns. While explanations might be limited, the visual aspect of the lace and the story of the nuns making it can be engaging. It's a good opportunity to discuss the value of handmade items and cultural heritage. Remember that the museum is small, so manage expectations for extensive activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, arrive with enough time to fully appreciate the exhibits without feeling rushed. Consider it an opportunity to witness a unique UNESCO-recognized craft without a significant financial outlay, especially if you're not planning to purchase souvenirs.
❤️ Couples
Consider visiting in the late afternoon for a more tranquil ambiance, but be mindful of closing times. Appreciating the intricate artistry together can be a shared, memorable moment, and perhaps even a unique souvenir to commemorate your trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Agave Lace
Visitors to the Lace Museum can witness this artistry firsthand and purchase these unique creations. While the prices reflect the labor-intensive nature of the craft, buying a piece of Hvar lace is a way to directly support the nuns and preserve this traditional skill. The museum offers a glimpse into a centuries-old tradition, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in cultural heritage and artisanal crafts.
Some visitors have noted that explanations about the lace-making process can be limited within the museum. However, the visual display of the finished products and the knowledge that these are made by the resident nuns adds a profound layer to the experience. It's an opportunity to connect with a living tradition and appreciate the skill passed down through generations.
A Monastery's Enduring Legacy
Over the centuries, the monastery has served as a spiritual center and, more recently, as a guardian of the unique agave lace-making tradition. The nuns residing here continue to uphold both their religious vows and their commitment to this UNESCO-recognized craft. The serene atmosphere of the monastery grounds offers a peaceful respite from the bustling town, inviting contemplation and appreciation for its enduring presence.
While the primary draw for many visitors is the Lace Museum, the monastery itself represents a continuity of faith and tradition. Its historical significance, combined with the living art form practiced within its walls, makes it a compelling destination for those seeking cultural immersion and a connection to Hvar's past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit