Rundāle Palace Museum, Kurzeme Travel Guide

Rundāle Palace, located in Pilsrundāle, Latvia, is a magnificent testament to 18th-century architecture and art. Designed by Francesco Rastrelli, the palace was commissioned by Ernst Johann von Biron, Duke of Courland, to reflect his power and influence. Construction took place in two main periods, with the interiors largely completed between 1765 and 1768 by a team of international craftsmen.Visitors can explore the palace's opulent state rooms, including the Golden Hall, White Hall, and Great Gallery, located in the eastern wing. The central block features the Duke's suite with reception parlors and private rooms, while the western block houses the Duchess's rooms. The museum's exhibitions showcase applied art, fine art, and historical displays, providing insights into the palace's history and the lives of its inhabitants.The French garden, designed alongside the palace, is a highlight, featuring ornamental parterres, a fountain, a Green Theater, bosquets, pergolas, and a labyrinth. The garden also boasts a rose garden with around 2,200 species. The Rundāle Palace Museum is not only a monument to the past but also a center for research into Latvia's history, with collections, exhibitions, and publications. It has earned international recognition, including the European Garden Award in 2021 for its French garden.