Cēsis Castle, Livonia Travel Guide

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Discover Cēsis Castle: Explore eight centuries of Latvian history in this iconic medieval fortress and cultural landmark.

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Cēsis Castle

Explore the ruins of Cēsis Castle, an 800-year-old medieval fortress in Latvia, founded by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Wander through its towers and grounds, imagining life during the Teutonic Order's reign, and discover the castle's pivotal role in Latvian 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 candle lantern for a unique and atmospheric experience, especially in the Western Tower.
Visit the castle during the summer months to enjoy medieval games, craft workshops, and the medieval garden.
Climb the South Tower for stunning views of Cēsis and the surrounding landscape.
Check the Cēsis Castle website for information on events, such as the Medieval Day and Legend Night.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

The Freedom Monument

House of the Black Heads

Ropažu Livonijas ordeņa pilsdrupas

Livonian Order Castle

Latvian Riflemen Monument

Explore Cēsis Castle on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From the Cēsis Tourism Information Centre in the Old Town, walk north along Pils laukums (Castle Square). The castle entrance is a short walk from the center of Cēsis. The walk is mostly flat and takes approximately 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

From Cēsu AO (bus station), take bus line 3009 towards the castle. Get off at the Pils parks (Castle Park) stop, which is a short walk to the castle entrance. The bus ride is approximately 4 minutes and costs around €1-€2.

Discover more about Cēsis Castle

Cēsis Castle, a majestic medieval fortress, stands as a powerful testament to Latvia's rich and turbulent past. Founded 800 years ago by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, the castle experienced its most prosperous period under the Teutonic Order, becoming a key administrative and economic center in Livonia. Over the centuries, Cēsis Castle has been rebuilt and expanded, witnessing battles with Russian, Polish, and Swedish troops. The castle's strategic importance led to its role as the residence of the Landmeister in Livland, hosting annual meetings of the Order's senior commanders. The Order's archive, library, and chancellery were also located within its walls. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds, wander through the ruins, and climb the towers for panoramic views of Cēsis. The on-site museum offers insights into the castle's history and the lives of those who once inhabited it. During the summer season, the castle garden comes alive with medieval games and craft workshops, offering a hands-on experience of medieval life.