Of all the buildings along Hvar’s handsome Riva, this is the most imposing. With its high stone facade and gaping semicircular mouth, it looks like the kind of hideaway where a Bond villain might store one of his submarines. It began life in the 14th century as a space to repair the galleons and as a warehouse for maritime accessories. (The town was obliged to equip a galley as its contribution to the Venetian fleet). It was substantially enlarged in the 16th century as Hvar became more important as a naval base and extra space for supplies and weaponry was required. Beautifully restored in 2019-20, but left dramatically bare rather than turned into a museum display, it’s a hugely impressive space, with rows of stone arches punctuating a lofty timber ceiling. It’s the perfect space for events, and hosts receptions and fairs throughout the year as well as a regular stream of awe-struck tourists.