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Daugmale Hill Fort: Echoes of Ancient Latvia

Discover ancient history and breathtaking views at Daugmale Hill Fort, a captivating archaeological site in Latvia's Ķekava Municipality.

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Explore Daugmale Hill Fort, an important archaeological site in Latvia's Ķekava Municipality. This ancient fortification, dating back to the early medieval period, offers a glimpse into the region's history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the remnants of the fort and imagine life in this once-thriving trade center.

A brief summary to Daugmale hill fort

  • Daugmale Parish, Ķekava Municipality, 2124, LV

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven while exploring the fort.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings after exploring the fort's ruins.
  • Check for any guided tours or local events that may enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Daugmale Hill Fort via public transportation from Riga, take a bus from the Riga bus station to Ķekava. Buses leave frequently, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. The cost for the bus from Riga to Ķekava is approximately €1.50. From Ķekava, transfer to a local bus heading to Daugmale. Get off at the Daugmale stop, a short 10-15 minute walk to the hill fort. The local bus fare is around €0.80. Check local bus schedules for weekend and holiday variations.

  • Car

    If traveling by car from Riga, head southeast on the A7 highway. Continue for approximately 30 kilometers. Take the exit towards Daugmale Parish and follow the signs for Daugmale. Turn onto the local road leading to Daugmale Hill Fort. There is ample parking available near the fort with no parking fee.

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Discover more about Daugmale hill fort

Daugmale Hill Fort, nestled in the serene landscape of Daugmale Parish within Ķekava Municipality, is a remarkable testament to Latvia's rich history. This ancient fortification dates back to the early medieval period, serving as a significant center of trade and craft. The site stands on the left bank of the Daugava River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Archaeological evidence suggests that the first humans settled here at the end of the 2nd millennium BCE. Daugmale flourished from the 10th to the 12th centuries when it was a vital downriver port on the trade route from the Varangians to the Greeks. The hill fort's strategic location made it a melting pot of cultures, inhabited by Semigallians, Livonians, and Latgallians, with trade connections reaching Rus, Scandinavia, Western Europe, and beyond. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort's structures, which tell stories of the past and offer a unique insight into the region's history. Informational plaques are scattered throughout the site, providing detailed insights into the historical significance of the fort. The elevated position of the hill fort provides stunning views of the landscape, making it an ideal place for contemplation and relaxation. The hill fort itself was constructed on a steep, rocky ridge, approximately 20 meters high. This natural elevation, combined with a 7-meter-high rampart, created a formidable defensive structure. Archaeological excavations have unearthed dwellings, outbuildings, pottery kilns, and even jewelry workshops, offering a glimpse into the daily life of its inhabitants.

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