Ancient castles

German military monks couldn't be confident of a warm welcome when they stormed into the Baltics in the early 13th century, teaching the locals about the joys of Christianity with the pointed end of their swords. Strong defenses were an essential precaution, and numerous castles that were built all around the country are still standing today. In Latvia, there are roughly 140 medieval castles. While many splendid palaces belonged to the nobles after the Baltic Crusades, some of them date back to the time of the Baltic Crusade.

One of the two most impressive Baroque castles constructed for the Duke of Courland is Rundale Castle in Latvia. The palace, with its outstanding Baroque and Rococo architecture, is situated in the heart of the picturesque Zemgale Plain in southern Latvia. It was constructed in the late 18th century, and Italian painters and a Berlin-based sculptor embellished the inside.

On the banks of the Gauja River in the huge area sits Turaida Castle, a significant defensive fortification that dates back to 1214. Throughout history, this fortress had a significant part to play. This structure, which is composed of red bricks, is quite well-known for its design. Sadly, a fire in 1776 caused damage to it, but it has just been rebuilt. In the renovated structures, there are exhibits concerning the Gauja Livonians and the history of the brick fortress. You must view the distinctive landscape that it shares!

There are numerous stone castles in Latvia's Gauja Valley. The majority of Latvia's castles are located in this region. One such stronghold, constructed in the 13th century by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, is Sigulda Castle. The castle was initially constructed to regulate the Gauja Valley's streams. William of Modena, the Pope's legate, transformed it into a monastic residence around the beginning of the 13th century. At Sigulda Castle, a parish was established along with the construction of a church.