Saint Sunday Cave on Hvar – Ancient Sanctuary and Remains of the Augustinian Monastery High Above the Sea
Saint Sunday Cave is one of the most unusual historical sites on the island of Hvar. It is located high in the cliffs above the village of the same name on the southern coast of the island, at approximately 365 meters above sea level, under the steep slopes of Saint Nicholas. Within the vast natural opening of the cave are the remains of a former Augustinian monastery, a small church dedicated to Our Lady of Snow, and old stone walls that recall the time when monks lived here.
The uniqueness of this site lies not only in its history but also in its incredible location. The cave opens towards the sea, and from its entrance, there is a wide view over the southern coast of Hvar towards the open sea and distant islands. It can be reached on foot from Saint Sunday, via a trail that ascends through vineyards, Mediterranean vegetation, and rocky terrain. The visit thus combines a moderate hiking trip, sightseeing of historical remains, and one of the most beautiful views above the village.
From Prehistoric Shelter to Augustinian Monastery
The natural cave was used as a shelter as far back as the Neolithic period, providing refuge for people. Its large opening, protected by high cliffs, and a water source within the cave made it suitable for longer stays.
In the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Augustinian monks settled here. During the 15th and 16th centuries, they built a small monastic complex, using the natural cave as protection from the elements. The monastery included living quarters, a church, agricultural areas, and a cemetery.
The monks did not live completely isolated from the surrounding population. They cultivated the land on the slopes below the cave, and their vineyards and agricultural estates played an important role in the development of present-day Saint Sunday. Over time, families working on the monastery's estates settled at the foot of the cliffs, forming the settlement we know today.
The Augustinian monastery operated until 1787. After its dissolution, the buildings gradually fell into disrepair, but the church continued to hold religious significance for the residents of Saint Sunday.
The Church of Our Lady of Snow and the Remains of the Monastery
The most interesting part of the cave is its historical remains. At the entrance to the large natural space are the stone walls of former monastic buildings, parts of an enclosed area, remains of a cemetery, and a small church dedicated to Our Lady of Snow.
The church is the most important preserved part of the former monastic complex. It has a simple appearance, with stone walls that blend naturally into the surrounding rock. The interior of the church has retained its sacred character, and the space continued to be used for religious gatherings even after the departure of the monks.
The cave also contains an old cistern, connected to a water source that enabled life in this otherwise difficult-to-access location. Next to the church, remnants of walls from former rooms, parts of stone steps, and traces of the space's arrangement can be seen.
It is particularly impressive how the entire complex is situated under a massive stone vault. The natural rock actually served as the roof of part of the monastic space, which significantly distinguishes the cave from classical monasteries and churches on the island.
What the Cave Looks Like and What Can Be Seen?
Saint Sunday Cave is not a typical tourist cave with long underground corridors, artificial lighting, and organized tours. It is a large natural opening in the rock, whose front part is spacious enough that monastic buildings could once stand within it.
Most of the space is illuminated by daylight entering through the large opening. Behind the stone remains, there are darker parts of the cave, while a wide view of the sea opens up towards the outside.
When exploring, special attention should be paid to the old walls, the church, stone steps, and how the former builders utilized the natural configuration of the rock.
No speleological equipment is needed to explore the external parts of the monastic complex and the open space of the cave. However, in some areas, the ground is rocky and uneven, and visitors should not approach the old walls and ruins in a way that could compromise their safety.
Access to the interior of the church depends on whether it is open. One should not expect constant availability of the interior throughout the year.
Hiking Trail from Saint Sunday to the Cave
The cave is most commonly accessed on foot from Saint Sunday. The trail begins in the upper part of the village and ascends towards the high cliffs that dominate the area.
Initially, it passes by stone houses, gardens, and vineyards, then continues through Mediterranean vegetation and increasingly rocky terrain. As elevation is gained, the view towards the sea becomes wider.
The ascent from the village to the cave takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on fitness and walking pace. The trail is generally passable, but due to the continuous ascent and rocky surface, it is not an ordinary walking path. Special care should be taken on slippery sections after rain and on loose stones.
The most pleasant time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, especially in summer. During July and August, the ascent in strong sunlight can be strenuous, so it is important to bring enough drinking water, sturdy footwear, and sun protection.
For the trip to the cave and back, along with time for sightseeing and photography, it is best to plan approximately two hours.
View of the Southern Coast of Hvar
The view from the cave is one of the main reasons to undertake the ascent. Below, the houses of Saint Sunday, the marina, and the indented coastline with vineyards descending towards the sea can be seen.
The high stone arch at the entrance to the cave naturally frames the sea and sky, making it particularly interesting for photography. From this position, it is clear how Saint Sunday is situated on the steep and rocky southern side of Hvar.
The view is most beautiful in clear weather, when the horizon is clearly outlined, and the open sea changes shades of blue throughout the day.
The cave is also near hiking and climbing areas that lead to the highest peak on the island, Saint Nicholas. However, continuing towards the higher parts of the ridge is significantly more demanding than simply visiting the cave and requires appropriate preparation.
Religious Tradition and the Significance of the Cave for Saint Sunday
Although the monastery no longer exists as a monastic community, the cave has retained an important place in local religious tradition.
The Church of Our Lady of Snow is associated with the feast on August 5, when religious gatherings and services are traditionally held. The cave is also mentioned as a site of local pilgrimage during Good Friday.
Therefore, the cave is not only a historical site but also a space that connects the residents of Saint Sunday with their predecessors. For centuries, it has been a place of prayer, gathering, and life, and its preserved remains still testify to that part of the island's past.
Who Would Benefit from Visiting Saint Sunday Cave?
The cave is particularly interesting for history enthusiasts, hikers, photographers, and those interested in lesser-known sites of Hvar. Its greatest asset is the combination of historical monastery, large natural cave, and sea view.
The visit is a good choice for adults and older children who are accustomed to walking uphill on rocky paths. It is not suitable for individuals with reduced mobility, small children's strollers, or visitors who have difficulty walking on uneven terrain.
Unlike most attractions that can be viewed immediately next to the road or in the center of the village, this one requires some effort to reach. This is why a stay in the cave provides a different experience of Saint Sunday and reveals a historical side of the place that is hardly noticeable from the coast.
Useful Information
- Location: Above the village of Saint Sunday, southern coast of Hvar, under the peak of Saint Nicholas.
- Elevation: Approximately 365 meters.
- Type of Site: Large natural cave with remains of an Augustinian monastery and the Church of Our Lady of Snow.
- History: The cave has been used since the Neolithic period; the Augustinian monastery was established during the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Monastery: Operated until 1787.
- Preserved Parts: Church of Our Lady of Snow, old cistern, remains of monastic walls and cemetery.
- Access: Via a hiking trail from the upper part of Saint Sunday.
- Duration of Ascent: Approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on fitness.
- Trail Difficulty: Continuous ascent, occasionally rocky and uneven terrain.
- Parking: It is best to leave the car in a permitted area in the village and continue on foot to the cave.
- Sightseeing: The open space of the cave and the remains of buildings can be explored on foot; access to the interior of the church is not constant.
- View: Panorama of Saint Sunday, southern coast of Hvar, and the open sea.
- Religious Tradition: The church is dedicated to Our Lady of Snow, whose feast is celebrated on August 5.
- Suitable for Children: For older children accustomed to walking, under adult supervision.
- Recommendation: Bring sturdy footwear, water, sun protection, and avoid the ascent during the hottest summer heat.
- Time for Visit: Plan approximately two hours for the ascent, sightseeing, and return.
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