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Cēsis Castle: A Medieval Marvel

Explore the ruins of Cēsis Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with over 800 years of captivating Latvian history and stunning panoramic views.

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Cēsis Castle, a cornerstone of Latvian history, stands as one of the country's most iconic and well-preserved medieval castles. Founded over 800 years ago by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, it flourished under the Teutonic Order, becoming a vital administrative and economic center. Explore its ancient ruins and delve into the tales of knights, battles, and dramatic explosions that shaped its storied past.

A brief summary to Cēsis Castle

Local tips

  • Explore the castle with a lantern (available at the visitor center) for a unique and atmospheric experience, especially in the Western Tower.
  • Visit the castle's medieval garden to see the herbs and vegetables that were used in the castle's kitchen centuries ago.
  • Check the schedule for guided tours in English, which provide in-depth information about the castle's history and architecture.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Cēsis History and Art Museum in the New Castle to learn more about the region's past.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle grounds, including the towers, ruins, and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cēsis city center, Cēsis Castle is easily accessible by foot. From Līvu laukums (Livu square), head north on Rīgas iela, then turn left onto Bērzaines iela. Continue onto Pils laukums. The walk is approximately 500m and takes about 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking to the castle.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train or bus to Cēsu AO (Cēsis Bus Station), take the local bus number 3009 from the 'Stacija' stop to 'Pils parks'. The bus ride is approximately 4 minutes and departs hourly. From the 'Pils parks' bus stop, it is a short walk to the castle entrance. A single bus fare costs approximately €1-€2.

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Discover more about Cēsis Castle

Cēsis Castle, a majestic testament to medieval Latvia, invites visitors to journey through centuries of captivating history. Established in the early 13th century by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, the castle rose to prominence as a key stronghold of the Teutonic Order, serving as their Livonian seat. Its strategic importance and imposing architecture made it a central hub for administration and commerce in the region. Over the course of its existence, Cēsis Castle witnessed numerous conflicts, including sieges by Russian, Polish, and Swedish forces. A particularly dramatic event occurred in 1577 during the Livonian War when, under siege by Ivan the Terrible's army, approximately 300 defenders and residents committed mass suicide by detonating gunpowder within the castle walls. While the castle continued to be used for another century, it eventually fell into disrepair following the Great Northern War. Today, Cēsis Castle stands as a captivating historical site, attracting tourists from around the globe. Visitors can explore the extensive castle grounds, wander through the ruins, and ascend the towers for panoramic views of Cēsis and the surrounding landscape. The castle complex also includes the New Castle, an 18th-century manor house that hosts the Cēsis History and Art Museum, offering further insights into the region's rich heritage. During the summer months, guests of Cēsis Castle can visit craftsmen's workshops.

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