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Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle

Explore the remains of Valmiera's 13th-century Livonian Order Castle, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Latvia's medieval past.

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Explore the evocative ruins of Valmiera's Livonian Order Castle, a 13th-century fortification that once stood as the Livonian Order's stronghold on the Gauja River's right bank. Though largely destroyed in 1702 during the Great Northern War, the remaining ruins offer a glimpse into the region's medieval past and strategic importance.

A brief summary to Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain of the castle ruins.
  • Visit the Valmiera Museum, located within the castle grounds, to learn more about the history of the castle and the city.
  • Check the schedule for summer concerts and events held at the open-air stage within the castle ruins.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Valmiera Tourism Information Centre at Rīgas iela 10, walk south along Rīgas iela. Turn left onto Bruņinieku iela. Continue straight; the Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle will be on your left in a short distance. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Valmiera Bus Station, take any bus that stops near the Valmiera Museum or the city center. Get off at the Bruņinieku iela stop. Walk a short distance to Bruņinieku iela 3, where you will find the castle ruins. A single bus ticket costs approximately EUR 0.60.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Valmiera. A short taxi ride from a central location in Valmiera to the Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle will typically cost between EUR 3 and EUR 5, depending on the distance and time of day.

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Discover more about Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle

The Ruins of the Livonian Order Castle in Valmiera stand as a poignant reminder of the city's rich and often turbulent history. Constructed in the 13th century by the Livonian Order, the castle was strategically positioned on the right bank of the Gauja River, offering natural defenses from the steep riverbank and the Rātsupīte ravine. It marked the Order's first fortification in this area, built possibly on the site of an old Latgalian castle. Throughout its history, the castle played a vital role in regional politics, hosting Landtags, which were assemblies of representatives from the Livonian Confederation. However, its strategic importance also made it a target in times of war. The castle suffered repeated destruction, culminating in its near-total demolition in 1702 during the Great Northern War when the troops of Tsar Peter I invaded Valmiera. Following its destruction, the castle became a source of building materials for local residents. Today, ancient boulders from the castle can still be seen supporting houses on Rīgas Street. What remains of the castle now serves as a historical site where visitors can explore the ruins, visit the Valmiera Museum located within the castle grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of the Gauja River and Valmiera's historic center. In the summer, the grounds host concerts and other events.

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