Cēsis Castle, Latgale Upland Travel Guide

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Explore the ruins of Cēsis Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with centuries of Livonian history, located in the heart of Cēsis, Latvia.

Cēsis Castle, founded over 800 years ago by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, stands as one of Latvia's most iconic and well-preserved medieval castles. Once a vital administrative center of the Teutonic Order, the castle ruins offer a captivating glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Cēsis Castle

Pils laukums 11, Cēsis, Cēsu pilsēta, Cēsis Municipality, 4101, LV
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cēsis Castle.

Explore the castle with a guided tour to delve deeper into its history and learn about the lives of its inhabitants.
Visit the castle during the summer months to experience medieval-themed activities and events.
Climb the Western Tower with a candle lantern for a unique and unforgettable adventure.
Take a walk through the Castle Park to enjoy the scenic landscape and historical monuments.

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Explore Cēsis Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cēsis Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Cēsis Castle is located in the heart of Cēsis, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations in the town center. From the Cēsu AO (bus station), it's approximately an 11-minute walk. Simply head north, following the main road (Raunas iela), then turn left onto Vienības laukums, which leads directly to Pils laukums and the castle entrance. The walk is straightforward and well-signposted.
Public Transport

If arriving by train or bus at Cēsu AO, you can take the local bus number 3009 to reach Cēsis Castle. The bus departs from the 'Stacija' stop and arrives at 'Pils parks', which is a short walk from the castle entrance. The journey takes approximately 8 minutes and costs around €1-€2. Buses depart hourly.

Discover more about Cēsis Castle

Cēsis Castle, a prominent landmark in Latvia, boasts a history spanning over eight centuries. Its story began in 1214 when the Livonian Brothers of the Sword laid its foundations. The castle rose to prominence under the Teutonic Order, becoming a key administrative and economic hub in Livonia and the seat of the Landmeister.The castle's strategic importance led to numerous conflicts and transformations throughout its history. It faced sieges, including a devastating attack by Ivan the Terrible's army in 1577, during which approximately 300 defenders committed suicide by detonating gunpowder stores. While the castle continued to be used, it fell into disrepair after the Great Northern War.Today, Cēsis Castle stands as a testament to its tumultuous past. The ruins have been carefully preserved and studied, making it archaeologically rich. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, wander through the towers with candle lanterns, and discover the medieval kitchen garden. The Cēsis History and Art Museum, located in the New Castle, showcases the region's history and culture. The castle complex hosts various events, including medieval festivals and concerts, offering an immersive experience for visitors.