Latvia, a land of rich history and stunning landscapes, features magnificent castles and manors. These historic estates, ranging from medieval fortresses to elegant Baroque palaces, offer a fascinating glimpse into Latvia’s past. This guide explores some of the most impressive Latvian castles and manors that you can visit, providing information on their history, architecture, tours, and how to get there. So, get ready to step back in time and discover the grandeur of Latvia’s noble heritage! A tour of Latvian castles and manors is a must for any history buff.
1. Rundāle Palace – The Versailles of Latvia
History: Construction of Rundāle Palace took place in two phases: first from 1736 to 1740 and later from 1764 to 1768. The palace served as the summer residence of Ernst Johann Biron, Duke of Courland and a close confidant of Russian Empress Anna. Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the renowned architect behind the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, designed this grand estate.
Architecture: Rundāle Palace stands as a masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo architecture. Its symmetrical facades, elaborate ornamentation, and opulent interiors reflect the luxury of the Russian Imperial court. A meticulously restored French garden surrounds the palace, featuring fountains, canals, and a stunning rose garden.
What to See: Visitors can tour the fully restored state rooms, including the Gold Hall, White Hall, and Great Gallery, as well as the private apartments of the Duke and Duchess. The palace museum showcases 18th-century art and decorative pieces. Additionally, the extensive gardens provide a picturesque retreat.
How to Get There: Rundāle Palace lies about 80 km (50 miles) south of Riga. Regular bus services run between Riga and Rundāle, with a stop in Bauska.
2. Turaida Castle: A Medieval Gem
History: Built in 1214 under the orders of Albert of Riga, Turaida Castle replaced an earlier wooden Liv stronghold. It played a crucial role as a defensive point and administrative center. Over the centuries, the castle suffered damage from various conflicts, and a fire in 1776 left it largely abandoned. Restoration efforts in the 20th century helped preserve its historical significance.
Architecture: Constructed from red brick, the castle features the well-preserved Great Tower (Bergfried), which offers breathtaking views of the Gauja River valley. The complex also includes residential buildings, a church, and defensive walls.
What to See: Visitors can climb the Great Tower for panoramic views, explore museum exhibits on medieval life, and visit the castle church. The surrounding Turaida Museum Reserve includes the Dainu Hill sculpture garden, the wooden Turaida Church, and the famous Gutmanis Cave, known for its centuries-old inscriptions.
How to Get There: Turaida is near Sigulda. A train or bus from Riga to Sigulda takes about an hour, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the castle.
3. Cēsis Castle – A Step Back in Time
History: The Livonian Brothers of the Sword (who later merged with the Teutonic Order) founded Cēsis Castle in 1209. As a result, it became one of the most important strongholds in Livonia. The castle served as a residence for the Masters of the Livonian Order. Furthermore, it was repeatedly besieged and rebuilt throughout its history. The Great Northern War severely damaged it in the early 18th century, and consequently, it fell into ruin.
Architecture: Built from local dolomite stone, the castle features imposing defensive walls and a striking Western Tower, which offers spectacular views.
What to See:Explore the castle ruins (with a lantern tour option, a unique experience!). Climb the Western Tower. Visit the multimedia exhibition in the restored gatehouse (detailing the castle’s history). Also, see the medieval kitchen garden. Finally, check their website for seasonal events, including medieval festivals and re-enactments.
How to Get There: Cēsis is easily reachable by train or bus from Riga, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The castle is within walking distance of the train and bus stations.
4. Bauska Castle – A Medieval and Renaissance Treasure
History: The Livonian Order built Bauska Castle in the mid-15th century at the confluence of the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers. In the late 16th century, Gotthard Kettler, the last Master of the Livonian Order, added a Renaissance-style palace next to the medieval fortress.
Architecture: The striking contrast between the medieval castle ruins and the Renaissance palace makes Bauska Castle a fascinating site. The Renaissance section features ornate plasterwork and decorative elements, including sgraffito ornamentation.
What to See: Guests can explore the ruins of the Livonian Order stronghold, enjoy views of the river confluence, and tour the restored Renaissance palace. The on-site museum displays exhibits on the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, historical interiors, and weaponry.
How to Get There: Located about an hour’s drive south of Riga, Bauska Castle is accessible by car or regular bus services.
5. Jaunpils Castle – A Livonian Order Stronghold
History: Founded in 1301 by Livonian Order Master Gottfried von Roga, Jaunpils Castle retains much of its original medieval character. Unlike many castles in Latvia, it has been continuously inhabited and maintained over the centuries.
Architecture: Designed as a fortress, the castle features thick defensive walls, a square courtyard, and Gothic and Renaissance architectural influences.
What to See: Today, Jaunpils Castle functions as a hotel and event venue. Visitors can join guided tours, participate in medieval-themed activities, and explore the castle’s museum. The courtyard and surrounding park add to the experience.
How to Get There: Jaunpils is about 80 km (50 miles) west of Riga, best accessed by car.
6. Edole Castle – A Hidden Gem in Kurzeme
History: Ēdole Castle’s origins date back to 1264, when it was built as a castle of the Bishopric of Courland, not the Livonian Order, a significant distinction. It was a fortified residence for the bishop’s vassal. The castle was significantly altered and expanded over the centuries. From 1561 until 1920, it was owned by the Baltic German von Behr family, who transformed it from a medieval fortress into a more comfortable manor house, though retaining many of its defensive features. This long period of continuous ownership by a single family is quite unusual.
Architecture: Ēdole Castle is a complex blend of architectural styles. The oldest parts are Gothic, reflecting its medieval origins. You can still see the thick walls and defensive towers. Later additions and renovations introduced Renaissance and Neogothic elements. The 19th-century alterations, in particular, added the Neogothic features that are prominent today. The interiors feature a mix of styles, reflecting the different periods of the castle’s history.
What to See: The castle is privately owned but open for tours. Visitors can explore the various rooms, which are furnished with period furniture and antiques. The castle is known for its collection of hunting trophies and its somewhat eccentric atmosphere. There are indeed “ghost stories” associated with the castle, and the guides often incorporate these into the tours, adding a bit of spooky fun. The courtyard and the surrounding park (though somewhat overgrown) are also accessible.
How to Get There: Ēdole is located in the Kurzeme region of Latvia, about 170 km (105 miles) west of Riga. Driving is the most practical way to reach the castle. There are limited public transport options.
7. Dikļi Manor – Luxury in a Historic Latvian Setting
History: Dikļi Manor (Dikļu pils in Latvian) was built in 1896 for Baron Paul von Wolf. Although relatively “new” compared to medieval castles, it represents the late 19th-century manor house style popular among the Baltic German nobility. It served as a private residence until the Latvian agrarian reforms of the 1920s. During the Soviet era, it was used as a sanatorium. After Latvia regained independence, it was carefully restored and converted into a luxury hotel and restaurant.
Architecture: The manor is a prime example of Neo-Baroque architecture, with some Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) influences. It features a symmetrical facade, ornate detailing, and a prominent central tower. The interiors are richly decorated, with period furniture, fireplaces, and artwork. The emphasis is on elegance and comfort.
What to See: Dikļi Manor primarily functions as a high-end hotel and restaurant. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations, fine dining (the restaurant is highly regarded), and spa services. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can visit the restaurant or explore the surrounding park, which features walking paths and a pond. The interiors are beautifully preserved and worth seeing if you’re dining there or attending an event.
How to Get There: Dikļi is located in northern Latvia, about 110 km (68 miles) north of Riga, near Valmiera. Driving is the most convenient option, although buses to nearby towns are available.
8. Krimulda Manor – A Neoclassical Estate with Stunning Views
History: Krimulda Manor (Krimuldas muiža in Latvian) was built in the 19th century (the main building dates to 1848) for Prince Paul Lieven, a member of a prominent Baltic German noble family. It’s a classic example of a 19th-century country estate. After World War I and the Latvian agrarian reforms, the manor was nationalized. It served as a sanatorium for many years, specializing in rehabilitation.
Architecture: The manor is built in the Neoclassical style, characterized by its symmetrical facade, portico with columns, and restrained ornamentation. It’s less ornate than Baroque or Rococo manors, reflecting the more austere aesthetic of the period. The setting, overlooking the Gauja River valley, is a key part of its appeal.
What to See: While the main manor building itself is currently used as a rehabilitation center and is not generally open for public tours, the surrounding park and grounds are accessible and offer spectacular views of the Gauja River valley. You can walk through the park, enjoy the scenery, and visit the Krimulda Manor winery, which produces fruit wines and offers tastings. It’s a popular spot for hiking and enjoying nature. It is possible to stay at this location.
How to Get There: Krimulda is located near Sigulda, about 50 km (31 miles) northeast of Riga. Take a train or bus from Riga to Sigulda, and then a local bus or taxi to Krimulda.
9. Dundaga Castle: Legends of a Medieval Fortress
History: Built in the late 13th century. One of the best-preserved medieval castles in Latvia, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and architectural evolution across different eras.
Architecture: Over the centuries, Dundaga Castle has undergone several modifications, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. The castle’s structure includes thick defensive walls, towers, and a central courtyard, characteristic of medieval fortresses.
What to See: The castle hosts various cultural events, exhibitions, and guided tours that provide insights into its past. There are many legends about this location.
How to get There: About a 2hr 30min drive from Riga.
10. Kazdanga Palace – A Neoclassical Gem Surrounded by Nature
History: Built in the early 19th century (around 1800) in the Neoclassical style, Kazdanga Palace was one of the grandest manor houses in Kurzeme. It was owned by the influential Manteuffel family. The palace was damaged during World War I and later restored.
Architecture: A classic example of Neoclassical architecture, with a symmetrical facade, a portico with columns, and restrained ornamentation. The palace is surrounded by a large and well-preserved landscape park.
What to See: The palace now houses the Kazdanga Museum, with exhibits on local history, the Manteuffel family, and the palace itself. The extensive park, with its walking paths, ponds, and bridges, is a major attraction.
How to Get There: Kazdanga is located in southwestern Latvia, about 180 km (112 miles) from Riga. Driving is the most practical option.
Plan Your Trip to Latvian Castles and Manors: Essential Information
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring castles and gardens. However, the shoulder seasons (May, September) can be less crowded and offer pleasant weather. Winter visits can be magical, especially when the castles are covered in snow, but some facilities may have limited hours.
- Transportation: While some castles (like Cēsis, Turaida, and Bauska) are accessible by public transport (trains and buses from Riga), renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the wider range of castles and manors, especially those in more rural locations. This allows for greater flexibility and the opportunity to visit multiple sites in a single day. Many organized tours also visit Latvian castles and manors.
- Tours: Most castles and manors offer guided tours in multiple languages (Latvian, English, Russian, German are common). These tours provide valuable insights into the history and architecture of the sites.
- Accommodation: Several manors (Mežotne Palace, Jaunpils Castle, Dikļi Manor, Krimulda Manor) offer accommodation, ranging from luxurious suites to more budget-friendly rooms. Staying overnight allows for a truly immersive experience.
- Combine with Nature: Many castles and manors are located near national parks (Gauja National Park) or scenic areas, so it is easy to combine historical sightseeing with hiking, boating, or other outdoor activities.
- Check Websites: Always check the official websites of the castles and manors for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, tour schedules, ticket prices, and special events.
Visiting Latvian castles and manors is a journey through centuries of history, from the medieval might of the Livonian Order to the elegance of the Baroque and Neoclassical eras. These historic estates offer a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing Latvia’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. In conclusion, they are well worth exploring. Exploring these Latvian castles and manors will leave you breathless.