Rediscovering My Roots in Cesis: A Solo Journey

Whispers of Ancient Lives and Untamed Nature

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey that took me from the meticulously reconstructed past to the raw, untamed beauty of the present. It was a day of exploring Latvia's history and nature, a chance to connect with the land and its ancient roots. I started my day with a hearty breakfast at Pie Rikardiona, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead.

My first stop was the Āraiši lake dwelling Archaeological Park, a place I've longed to visit since I was a child. It felt surreal to finally be here, walking where ancient Latgallians once lived. As an archivist, I've spent countless hours poring over historical documents, but nothing compares to the feeling of standing on the very ground where history unfolded. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of the lake and the surrounding forest. It was a perfect summer day in Latvia, the kind that makes you feel alive and connected to the earth. I wore my comfortable walking shoes, a must for exploring these historical sites.


Discover the fascinating history of Latvia at Āraiši Lake Dwelling Archaeological Park, a cultural landmark set amidst stunning natural beauty.

The Āraiši Lake Fortress is a reconstruction of a 9th and 10th-century fortified settlement of the Latgallians, built on a small island in the middle of Lake Āraiši. The meticulous detail in recreating the dwellings was remarkable. It was easy to imagine what life must have been like for those who lived here so many centuries ago. I could almost hear the sounds of children playing, the rhythmic pounding of tools, and the murmur of daily life. The park is distinguished by its unique archaeological findings and the well-preserved cultural landscape typical of Vidzeme.

I wandered through the reconstructed wooden buildings, each one telling a story of a life lived long ago. The craftsmanship was astounding, and I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity of these ancient people. They were farmers, hunters, and craftsmen, making the most of the resources available to them. The park also features the ruins of Āraiši Stone Castle, built in the 14th century, offering a glimpse into the medieval period. It was fascinating to see how building traditions and materials changed over time.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

The visitor center was informative, presenting the original evidence and the story of archaeologist Jānis Apals, who dedicated his life to uncovering the secrets of Āraiši. His work has allowed us to understand and appreciate the lives of our ancestors. The attention to detail was impressive; replicas of ancient tools were used in the reconstruction work, ensuring the historical reliability of the site. I was particularly fascinated by the artifacts found during the excavations – pottery shards, tools, and remnants of daily life that offered a tangible connection to the past. As I walked around, I made sure to take lots of pictures with my camera. I am looking forward to showing Hans-Peter all the photos when I get back to Berlin.

After immersing myself in history, it was time for lunch. I stopped at UMAMI SUSHI in Cesis, a surprising but delightful choice. It was a refreshing change of pace, and the sushi was surprisingly good. It's always interesting to see how different cultures blend and influence each other, even in a small town like Cesis. Refreshed, I continued my journey to Līgatne Nature Trails.


Discover the enchanting landscapes and diverse wildlife at Līgatne Nature Trails, a hidden gem in Latvia perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.

The drive to Līgatne was beautiful, the road winding through rolling hills and dense forests. As I approached the nature trails, I could feel the air change, becoming cooler and fresher. The trails are located along the Gauja River, in an area of wooded ravines. This area offers visitors the chance to observe wild animals in Latvia in their natural environment. It felt good to be surrounded by nature, to escape the noise and bustle of city life. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life – the beauty of the natural world and the joy of exploration. I was glad that I had worn my comfortable walking shoes, as the trails were quite extensive.

The Līgatne Nature Trails were established in 1975 with the aim of familiarizing visitors with the nature of Latvia, the local plant and animal kingdom, species of wild mammals, biodiversity, and protection of nature. I walked along the 4-5 km trails, observing the local wildlife in open-air enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. I saw red deer, roe deer, wild boars, bears, black foxes, and lynxes. It was a unique experience to see these animals up close, to witness their beauty and power. The trails were well-maintained, with wooden stairs and gravel surfaces, making the hike enjoyable and accessible.

The highlight of the Līgatne Nature Trails was the 22-meter observation tower. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding forests and the Gauja River. The vista was breathtaking, a sea of green stretching as far as the eye could see. I took a moment to soak it all in, to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this place. I could see why this area is so important for conservation, a sanctuary for wildlife and a place for people to connect with nature.

As I continued my walk, I noticed the diverse flora of the region. The forests were lush with birch and conifer trees, creating a tapestry of green hues. Wildflowers dotted the landscape, adding splashes of color to the scenery. The air was filled with the sounds of birdsong, a symphony of nature that was both soothing and invigorating. I even spotted a few rare species of birds, a testament to the biodiversity of the area.

It was late afternoon when I finished exploring the Līgatne Nature Trails. I felt a sense of accomplishment, having hiked through the forest and observed the local wildlife. I also felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this natural wonder. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving these areas for future generations, to protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of our planet.

Before heading back to Cesis, I decided to visit the Līgatne Ferry crossing the Gauja. It is the only ferry of its kind to be powered by river current in Latvia and the Baltics. It is listed as a national monument of technical history. Unfortunately, I did not have enough time to take a ride on the ferry, but I did take some pictures of it.

Back in Cesis, I treated myself to dinner at Restorāns 1815. The meal was delicious, a perfect ending to a day of exploration. I savored the flavors of Latvian cuisine, reflecting on the experiences of the day. It was a day of contrasts, from the ancient history of Āraiši to the natural beauty of Līgatne. I felt a deep connection to this land, to my roots, and to the people who have called it home for centuries.


Discover authentic Latvian cuisine at Restorāns 1815 in Līgatne—where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Soviet Secret Bunker and Cēsis Castle Park, continuing my journey through Latvia's history and culture. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery, to uncovering more of the secrets and stories of this fascinating place. I am also planning to visit the Antique - interjera salons shop and get some souvenirs for Hans-Peter.

As I write this, sitting in a cozy cafe in Cesis, I feel a sense of peace and contentment. This solo journey has been a gift, a chance to reconnect with my past and to appreciate the present. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we take alone, allowing us to discover not only the world around us but also the world within.