Cesis: The Gem of Latvian Heritage

• HelloSveiki
  [sveh-kee]
• GoodbyeUz redzēšanos
  [ooz rehd-zeh-shah-nohs]
• YesJā
  [yah]
• NoNē
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeLūdzu
  [loo-dzoo]
• Thank youPaldies
  [pahl-dyehs]
• Excuse me/SorryAtvainojiet
  [aht-vahy-noh-yet]
• How are you?Kā jums klājas?
  [kah yooms klah-yahs]
• Fine. And you?Labi. Un jums?
  [lah-bee oon yooms]
• Do you speak English?Vai jūs runājat angliski?
  [vahy yoos roo-nah-yat ahng-lees-kee]
• I don't understandEs nesaprotu
  [ehs neh-sah-proh-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEs vēlētos redzēt ēdienkarti, lūdzu
  [ehs vye-leh-tohs rehd-zeht ay-dyehn-kahr-tee, loo-dzoo]
• I don't eat meatEs nēēdu gaļu
  [ehs neh-eh-doo gah-lyoo]
• Cheers!Priekā!
  [prieh-kah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEs vēlētos samaksāt, lūdzu
  [ehs vye-leh-tohs sah-mah-ksaht, loo-dzoo]

• Help!Palīdzība!
  [pah-lee-dzee-bah]
• Go away!Iet prom!
  [yeht prohm]
• Call the Police!Zvaniet policiju!
  [zvah-nyet poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Zvaniet ārstu!
  [zvah-nyet ahrs-too]
• I'm lostEs esmu pazudis
  [ehs ehs-moo pah-zoo-dees]
• I'm illEs esmu slimns
  [ehs ehs-moo sleemns]

• I'd like to buy...Es vēlētos pirkt...
  [ehs vye-leh-tohs peerkt]
• I'm just lookingEs tikai skatos
  [ehs tih-kai skah-tohs]
• How much is it?Cik tas maksā?
  [tsihk tahs mahk-sah]
• That's too expensiveTas ir pārāk dārgs
  [tahs eer paa-raak daargs]
• Can you lower the price?Vai jūs varat pazemināt cenu?
  [vahy yoos vah-raht pah-zeh-mee-naht tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Cik ir pulkstenis?
  [tsihk eer poolk-steh-nees]
• It's one o'clockIr viens pulkstenis
  [eer vyehns poolk-steh-nees]
• Half past (10)Pusdesmit
  [poos-dehs-meet]
• MorningRīts
  [reets]
• AfternoonPēcpusdiena
  [pehch-poo-sdyeh-nah]
• EveningVakars
  [vah-kahrs]
• YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
• TodayŠodien
  [shoh-dee-ehn]
• TomorrowRīt
  [reet]
• 1Viens
  [vyehns]
• 2Divi
  [dee-vee]
• 3Trīs
  [treehs]
• 4Četri
  [cheh-tree]
• 5Pieci
  [pyeh-tsee]
• 6Seši
  [seh-shi]
• 7Septiņi
  [sehp-tee-nyee]
• 8Astoņi
  [ahs-toh-nyee]
• 9Deviņi
  [deh-vee-nyee]
• 10Desmit
  [dehs-meet]

• Where's a/the...?Kur ir...?
  [koor eer]
• What's the address?Kāda ir adrese?
  [kah-dah eer ah-dreh-seh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Vai jūs varat mani parādīt (uz kartes)?
  [vahy yoos vah-raht mah-nee pah-raa-deet ooz kahr-tees]
• When's the next (bus)?Kad būs nākamais (autobuss)?
  [kahd boos nah-kah-mah-ees ou-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilete (uz ....)
  [bee-leh-teh ooz]

Cesis, originally known as Wenden, was founded by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword in 1206. The town quickly became a significant center for the military order and played a pivotal role in the region's medieval history.

Cesis Castle, a prominent medieval fortress, was constructed in the early 13th century by the Livonian Order. It served as the order's headquarters and played a crucial role during the Livonian Crusades. Today, the castle ruins attract visitors, offering insights into the town’s medieval past.

In the 14th century, Cesis became a member of the Hanseatic League, a commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe. This membership facilitated Cesis's economic growth and integration into broader European trade networks.

The Livonian War (1558-1583) significantly impacted Cesis. The conflict between various European powers led to the siege and eventual partial destruction of Cesis Castle in 1577. The war marked the end of the Livonian Order's control and ushered in a new era of political shifts.

In the early 17th century, Cesis came under Swedish rule following the Polish-Swedish War. The town experienced a period of reconstruction and growth under Swedish administration, benefiting from the stability and reforms introduced by the new rulers.

The early 18th century brought devastation to Cesis during the Great Northern War (1700-1721). The conflict between the Swedish Empire and a coalition led by Tsarist Russia resulted in the town suffering from battles, occupations, and subsequent economic decline.

The 19th century marked an economic revival for Cesis. The construction of the railway in 1889 connected the town to broader markets, fostering trade and industry. Cesis became known for its crafts, particularly textile production, and experienced significant urban development.

Following Latvia's declaration of independence in 1918, Cesis played a role in the Latvian War of Independence. The Battle of Cesis in June 1919 was a pivotal conflict that secured Latvian forces' victory over German and Baltic German troops, solidifying the nation's sovereignty.

Cesis, like the rest of Latvia, endured Soviet occupation during World War II and again from 1944 until Latvia regained independence in 1991. During this period, the town witnessed significant changes, including industrialization and the suppression of Latvian culture and traditions.

Since regaining independence, Cesis has emerged as a cultural and historical hub in Latvia. The town has preserved its rich heritage while embracing modernity, hosting numerous festivals, cultural events, and attracting tourists with its charming old town, historic sites, and natural beauty.

Cesis is located in the Vidzeme region of Latvia. The nearest international airport is Riga International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away. From Riga, you can take a direct train to Cesis, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Riga to Cesis, which also takes around 2 hours. For those who prefer driving, car rentals are available at Riga International Airport, and the drive to Cesis offers scenic views of the Latvian countryside.

Cesis is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are available. The town also has a bike rental service, which is a great way to explore the area at your own pace. If you plan to visit surrounding areas, renting a car might be the most convenient option.

The official currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in Cesis, including in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or when visiting more remote areas. ATMs are available in the town center, and many banks offer currency exchange services.

Cesis is generally a safe destination for tourists. Like anywhere, it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Cesis has a local police station and medical facilities, including a hospital and pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod. Latvians appreciate politeness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Cesis like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Latvian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Cesis Castle, a medieval fortress that offers a glimpse into the town's past. For a unique experience, take a walk in the Gauja National Park, which surrounds Cesis and offers stunning natural scenery.