St. Theodore's Church in Milna on Hvar – History of the Parish Church, Stained Glass, and Connection to Malo Grablje

St. Theodore's Church, also known as St. Tudor's Church, is the parish church of Milna on the island of Hvar. It is located in the settlement, not far from the main bay and pebble beach, and is recognizable by its simple stone architecture, bell tower, and bronze statue of St. Theodore in front of the church.

Although the current building was erected in the second half of the 20th century, its history is closely linked to the much older village of Malo Grablje. It was the residents of this village, who moved towards the sea, that shaped present-day Milna and brought the veneration of their patron saint, St. Theodore, to the new settlement.

Thus, the church is more than a place of worship. It is an important part of Milna's identity and an interesting stop for visitors who wish to learn about the history of this small Hvar location.

History of St. Theodore's Church

The construction of the current parish church began on March 18, 1967, at the initiative of parish priest Don Jurij Belić. The church was built from white stone, according to a design created by the priest himself.

After the completion of the works, it was consecrated by the Bishop of Hvar, Celestin Bezmalinović, on June 20, 1973.

Its construction coincided with a period of significant changes in this part of the island of Hvar. During the 20th century, the residents of Malo Grablje gradually abandoned the old village in the stone valley and moved to Milna, where new opportunities related to tourism and coastal living emerged.

In Malo Grablje, there was already a church dedicated to St. Theodore, built in 1882. With the relocation of the population, the tradition of venerating the same saint continued, and the new church in Milna adopted his title.

As a result, these two churches represent an interesting link between the old and new settlements.

Stone Architecture and Bell Tower

St. Theodore's Church is an example of simple sacred architecture from the second half of the 20th century, integrated into the appearance of a Dalmatian coastal town.

It is built from light stone and oriented towards the south, facing the sea. Its distinctive element is the bell tower with openings for the bells and a gabled roof covered with red tiles.

Unlike the more ornate Baroque churches found in older Hvar settlements, the church in Milna has a simpler exterior. Its value is particularly highlighted through the artworks that have been placed inside and around the church over the years.

The surrounding greenery, stone houses, and proximity to the sea provide a pleasant, almost rural atmosphere.

Stained Glass – One of the Church's Greatest Artistic Features

Particular attention is drawn to the fifteen stained glass windows created by academic sculptor Fra Joakim Jaki Gregov.

The stained glass was blessed by the Bishop of Hvar, Slobodan Štambuk, on December 9, 2012.

They depict the four evangelists and numerous saints, including St. Duje, St. John the Baptist, St. Cecilia, St. George, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Joseph, and St. Nicholas.

The depictions are arranged on the façade and walls of the church, on both sides of the altar area.

The stained glass adds color and light to the simply designed interior and represents one of the most interesting details of the church for visitors interested in sacred art.

Bronze Statue of St. Theodore in Front of the Church

In front of the church stands a bronze statue of St. Theodore, approximately 2.20 meters tall.

The statue was created by Fra Joakim Jaki Gregov and was ceremonially blessed in 2010 during the celebration of the patron saint's feast of Milna.

The saint is depicted with the symbols of his martyrdom, notably a cross shaped like a sword and a palm branch, a traditional symbol of martyrdom.

The statue is one of the most prominent artistic landmarks in this part of Milna. It is located in an open space, making it possible to view even when the interior of the church is not accessible to visitors.

Alongside the statue, the church doors featuring reliefs of Croatian saints and blesseds, also created by Fra Joakim Jaki Gregov, are of interest.

St. Theodore – Patron Saint of Milna

St. Theodore, traditionally referred to as St. Tudor by the residents of this part of Hvar, is the patron saint of Milna.

His feast day is celebrated on November 9, when the church becomes the center of the religious and social life of the place.

The veneration of St. Theodore is particularly interesting due to the connection between Milna and Malo Grablje. In the old village, there was a church of the same name, and with the relocation of the population to the coast, this tradition continued in the new parish church.

This connection is also evident in local history. The surname Tudor, common among the residents of Milna, derives from the name Theodore and serves as another reminder of the importance of this saint to the place.

How to Reach St. Theodore's Church?

The church is located in the settlement of Milna, approximately four kilometers east of the town of Hvar.

From the town of Hvar, there is an asphalt road leading to Milna, and the drive usually takes about ten minutes.

Upon arriving in the settlement, the church is situated in its developed part, slightly above the coast. It can be accessed via local streets, and a walking tour is particularly practical.

From the main beach of Milna and nearby accommodation facilities, the church can be reached by a short walk.

Due to its recognizable bell tower, it is easy to spot among the surrounding houses and greenery.

Parking and Access to the Church

Milna is a small coastal settlement where parking space is limited, especially during July and August.

For visiting the church, it is most practical to use the permitted parking spaces in the settlement and walk the last part of the way.

The streets around the church are not designed for a large number of parked cars, so it is advisable to avoid stopping in a way that would obstruct the passage of other vehicles or access to nearby houses.

If the visit to the church is combined with swimming, it is easiest to leave the car in an appropriate place upon arrival in Milna and explore the sights on foot.

What to Visit Nearby?

St. Theodore's Church is located close to the main amenities of Milna, so its visit does not require special organization.

Milna Beach (Vela Milna) is the main pebble bathing area of the settlement, known for its clear sea and coastal restaurants.

Further west is Mala Milna Beach, a smaller cove surrounded by pine trees, with pleasant spots for swimming and relaxation.

For history enthusiasts, Malo Grablje, an abandoned stone village above Milna, is particularly interesting. There, the older church of St. Theodore from 1882 is located, and visiting both sites allows for a better understanding of the development of present-day Milna.

Nearby are also the natural coves Velo Borče and Malo Borče, which offer a quieter experience of the Hvar coast.

Why Visit St. Theodore's Church?

St. Theodore's Church is not a monumental historical building like the larger churches in Hvar, but it holds special significance for Milna.

Its value lies in the connection with the relocation of the residents of Malo Grablje, the preservation of local religious tradition, and the interesting artworks found within.

The bronze statue of St. Theodore, the stained glass, and the stone architecture provide ample reasons for a brief visit during your stay in Milna.

For guests interested in the history and culture of the island of Hvar, the church represents a nice addition to a visit to the abandoned village of Malo Grablje and an understanding of the origins of the current coastal settlement.

Useful Information

• Location: Milna, southern coast of Hvar Island.
• Type of Attraction: Parish church and sacred cultural heritage.
• Dedication: To St. Theodore the Martyr, locally known as St. Tudor.
• Construction Start: March 18, 1967.
• Church Consecration: June 20, 1973.
• Architecture: Simple stone building with a bell tower, oriented towards the sea.
• Artistic Feature: Fifteen stained glass windows by Fra Joakim Jaki Gregov, blessed in 2012.
• Bronze Statue: Statue of St. Theodore approximately 2.20 meters tall, installed in 2010.
• Church Doors: Reliefs depicting Croatian saints and blesseds.
• Feast of the Patron: November 9.
• Historical Connection: Continuation of the tradition of the church of St. Theodore in Malo Grablje from 1882.
• Access by Car: Via asphalt road from the town of Hvar to Milna.
• Parking: Use permitted spaces in the settlement and continue to the church on foot.
• Walking Access: Short walk from the central part of Milna and from the main beach.
• Sightseeing: The exterior and statue can be viewed during a walk; entry to the church depends on its opening and services.
• Recommended for: Those interested in local history, sacred art, and cultural landmarks.
• Nearby: Milna Beach, Mala Milna, and the abandoned village of Malo Grablje.