Cesis Medieval Castle: Explore Latvia's Ancient Stronghold

Visitor Fee:

• Adults: Approx. €6-8
• Students/Seniors: €4-5
• Children (under 7): Free
  Additional fees may apply for guided tours or special events.

Transportation:

• By Car: Cēsis is about 90 km from Riga, a 1.5-hour drive, and there’s parking available near the castle.
• By Train: Trains from Riga to Cēsis take around 2 hours, and the castle is a 10-15 minute walk from the station.
• By Bus: Buses from Riga to Cēsis run frequently and take about 2 hours. From the bus station, it’s a short walk to the castle.
• By Bike: There are cycling routes that pass through Gauja National Park, connecting Sigulda and Cēsis.

Things to Do:

• Explore the Castle Ruins: Wander through the atmospheric ruins of the castle, including its towers, dungeons, and medieval halls. Visitors are given lanterns to explore the dark, historical interiors.
• Climb the Western Tower: Ascend the tower for a panoramic view of Cēsis town and the surrounding Gauja National Park.
• Visit the Cēsis Castle Museum: Located in the New Castle next to the medieval ruins, the museum showcases exhibits about the Livonian Order, medieval history, and Latvian heritage.
• Medieval Weapons Display: View a collection of medieval weapons and armor in the castle, highlighting its military significance.
• Historical Reenactments and Festivals: Cēsis Castle hosts medieval festivals, knight tournaments, and traditional events throughout the year.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here: Cēsis Medieval Castle is one of the most iconic and well-preserved medieval castles in Latvia. It offers a glimpse into the country's medieval history and provides visitors with an interactive experience of the past. The castle’s lantern-lit tours through its dungeons and towers give it a unique atmosphere, while the scenic surroundings of the castle gardens and Gauja National Park make it a picturesque destination. People also appreciate the combination of ruins and the adjacent 18th-century New Castle, creating a blend of medieval and modern history in one place.

How Old Is This Place: Cēsis Castle was originally built in 1214 by the Livonian Order and was a significant stronghold in the region. Over 800 years old, it played a vital role during the Northern Crusades and later during the Livonian Wars.

List of Activities:

• Lantern Tours: Explore the dimly lit ruins of the castle with lanterns, adding to the medieval experience.
• Climb the Towers: Ascend the castle towers for beautiful views of the Cēsis landscape.
• Explore the Castle Gardens: Wander through the peaceful gardens surrounding the castle, offering a relaxing atmosphere.
• Visit the New Castle: Adjacent to the medieval ruins, the New Castle houses the Cēsis History and Art Museum with exhibits on local and Latvian history.
• Attend Medieval Festivals: Experience medieval culture during events such as knight tournaments, historical reenactments, and craft fairs.
• Interactive History Exhibits: Participate in hands-on exhibits that showcase medieval life, from crafts to cooking.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• St. John’s Church: One of the oldest churches in Latvia, located in the heart of Cēsis, dating back to the 13th century.
• Cīrulīši Nature Trails: Located nearby, these scenic trails through forests and hills offer spectacular views of Gauja National Park.
• Erglu Cliffs: A beautiful sandstone cliff along the Gauja River, offering a breathtaking view of the river valley.
• Araisi Archaeological Park: A reconstructed ancient wooden lake settlement from the 9th century, located just a short drive from Cēsis.
• Sigulda and Turaida Castle: Located within Gauja National Park, these medieval castles are popular stops along the way to Cēsis.

Cesis Medieval Castle provides a rich historical experience with a dramatic atmosphere and a wealth of activities for all ages. Combining its scenic setting in the Gauja National Park with centuries of history, it's a top destination for travelers interested in Latvia's medieval past.