Discover Hvar’s rich history and natural beauty. It offers visitors much more than just its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Nestled among its scenic landscapes are numerous prehistoric sites. Ancient caves and hillforts date back as far as 4000 BC. These sites provide a window into the early civilizations of the Balkans, including the Illyrians, Greeks, and Romans. Today, many of these ancient remains are incorporated into medieval monuments or lie hidden. And they wait on you, an adventurer, to uncover their secrets.
Grapčeva Cave: A Glimpse into Prehistoric Life

One of the most significant prehistoric sites on Hvar Island is Grapčeva Cave. It is located near the village of Jelsa on the island’s northern side and situated at an elevation of 250 meters (820 feet) on the slopes of Humac Hill.
This cave offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the southern coast of Hvar. Enveloped by Mediterranean vegetation, the cave’s narrow entrance leads to a surprisingly large interior. It was once brightly illuminated by the sun before an earthquake around 1000 BC closed it off.
Grapčeva Cave is an important archaeological site, revealing evidence of human activity between 4000 BC and 2000 BC. Excavations have discovered carved ceramics and tools. This shows us an early contact between the island’s inhabitants and cultures from the Aegean and Ionian seas. The cave’s cultural significance is immense, offering a rare glimpse into life on the island during prehistoric times. It also boasts remarkable stalactites and stalagmites, adding to its allure as a must-visit destination.
Discover Hvar’s Other Prehistoric Caves
While Grapčeva Cave is the most famous, it is far from the only prehistoric site on Hvar Island. Another notable cave is Markova Cave, located on the western edge of the island near the town of Hvar. Used from 4500 BC to 200 AD, this cave has also yielded ceramic artifacts and tools similar to those found in Grapčeva Cave. Historical evidence of the island’s long history of human settlement.
In addition to these, several other caves, including Pokrivenik, Babina, Ormanica, and Dark Cave (Tamna Spilja), dot the island. Each of these caves holds its unique archaeological significance. Pokrivenik Cave, for example, is known for housing the oldest sailboat drawing in Europe, dating to around 3000 BC. This suggests that prehistoric people were already navigating the Adriatic Sea by sail at that time.

Illyrian and Greek Hillforts
Beyond caves, Hvar Island is also home to Illyrian and Greek hillforts. Which further highlights the island’s strategic importance in ancient times. Gračišće, a prehistoric hillfort located near the village of Vrisnik, is one of the best-preserved sites. The ruins of this Illyrian and Greek hillfort are still visible today. Their impressive stone walls were once as wide as 10 meters (32 feet) in certain areas. Pottery and Roman tools found here reveal the fort’s history and its connection to both Illyrian and Greek cultures.
Another remarkable site is Purkin Kuk, a fortified hilltop settlement dating back to the Greek period. It’s located in a strategically important area surrounded by cliffs. This site was nearly impossible to attack, and it provided the inhabitants with excellent defense.
Tor Hillfort: A Strategic Military Site
Tor Hillfort, located near the village of Jelsa, offers one of the most breathtaking views on Hvar Island. Built around the 3rd to 4th century BC, Tor was a vital stronghold for the Greeks. They colonized the island in 384 BC. From this vantage point, the Greeks could survey the Starigrad fields, the Hvar Channel. Even the distant Biokovo mountain on the mainland! That way Tor was an invaluable military outpost.
Interestingly, a stone pile (gomila) in front of the hillfort dates to a much earlier period. Possibly constructed by the Illyrians. This site reflects the blend of Illyrian and Greek cultures that shaped the island’s early history.




Stone Structures and Terraces: Traces of Ancient Inhabitants
Discover Hvar’s landscape, dotted with stone structures, including round stone houses known as trims. These prehistoric shelters, once used by locals for protection from storms and invaders, can still be found across the island. Similar to the Trulli in Puglia, these stone huts were constructed using dry stone techniques. The same techniques are passed down through generations.
Many terraces and stone piles (gomila) scattered across the island were built by the Illyrians. Merely to cultivate crops and keep livestock. Today, these remnants stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the island’s ancient inhabitants.
Prehistoric Life: Hunters, Farmers, and Traders
The prehistoric people of Hvar were not only hunters and farmers but also traders. The island’s terraces and stone structures are a great way to discover Hvar. They speak to the agricultural practices of the time. While evidence of metal tools found in various caves suggests that these early inhabitants were skilled artisans. It’s believed that they traded goods such as ceramics, wine, and olive oil with neighboring cultures across the Adriatic Sea.
How to Explore Hvar’s Prehistoric Heritage

Contact us directly and discover Hvar’s breathtaking views, hidden caves, and ancient ruins that will leave you in awe.
Visiting these prehistoric sites is an excellent way to learn about Hvar’s rich cultural history. There are several guided tours and hiking routes available on the island that take you to these remarkable sites. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or even off-roading, you’ll find a tour that fits your interests.
Conclusion: Uncover Hvar’s Ancient Secrets
Hvar Island is not only a stunning destination for beach lovers and sunseekers, but it also offers an incredible journey through time. From prehistoric caves and hillforts to ancient stone structures, Hvar is a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventurous traveler, Hvar’s prehistoric sites will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories of this enchanting island in the Adriatic Sea.