As one of Croatia’s most frequented holiday destinations, the island of Hvar’s Old Town is renowned for its cobbled streets and beautifully preserved buildings. The new Palazzo Caterina can be found here, inside an early 19th-century building overlooking the main square.

The hotel was brought to life by the esteemed Spanish design studio Rôck&Villa, led by Paulo Valcic and Stefan Relic, whose main focus has always been restoring historic buildings. Based in Mallorca, the duo has long considered Hvar one of their favourite holiday destinations, expressing that this project allowed them to combine their professional expertise with their first-hand knowledge of the island.

“Palazzo Caterina represents the perfect marriage of history and sophistication,” Valcic says. “The beautiful surroundings and views from the windows overlooking the cathedral and the main square were the starting point of our inspiration. We began there and adapted the whole interior in response, creating a design that celebrates the location’s natural beauty and historical significance.” 

The restoration process was meticulous and heartfelt. Original stone walls and intricate mouldings honour the building’s rich history, while thoughtfully integrated contemporary elements—bespoke furniture, handmade objects, and state-of-the-art amenities—elevate comfort and style. This interplay between past and present creates a design narrative that perfectly captures the essence of Hvar.