Bauska Town Hall: A Symbol of History and Renewal
Discover Bauska's historical heart at the Town Hall: a symbol of revival, culture, and community in the center of Market Square.
The Bauska Town Hall, located in the heart of Bauska's Market Square, is a captivating landmark with a storied past. The original town hall was constructed in 1616, after Duke Friedrich Kettler granted Bauska the right to build a town hall in 1615. During the 17th century, it was the largest and most opulent town hall in the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, signifying Bauska's importance as a trade center. The building housed a weights and measures room on the first floor, a meeting hall for town officials on the second floor, and a bell tower to announce important events. Over the centuries, the town hall suffered from neglect and structural issues. By the mid-19th century, it had fallen into disrepair, leading to the dismantling of the tower in 1852 and the second floor in 1871. The remaining structure was used for various purposes, including storage for fire equipment and commercial shops. For many years, the town hall was virtually forgotten. In the early 2000s, efforts began to restore the town hall to its former glory. The reconstruction was completed in 2011, marking a significant milestone in preserving Bauska's cultural heritage. Today, the Bauska Town Hall is the only reconstructed 17th-century town hall in Latvia. It houses the Bauska Tourism Information Center and the Registry Office of Bauska County. Visitors can explore the Weights and Measures exhibition and the interior, which features period furniture, chandeliers and art objects. The town hall also hosts marriage ceremonies, award ceremonies, and welcomes high-ranking delegations.
Local tips
- Visit the Weights and Measures exhibition to learn about historical trade practices and even get weighed in ancient units.
- Check out the Bauska Tourism Information Center inside for maps, local tips, and information on regional attractions.
- Explore the interior for a glimpse into 17th- and 18th-century life with authentic furniture and art objects.
- Climb the tower for panoramic views of Bauska and the surrounding area (when available).
A brief summary to Bauska Town Hall
- Rātslaukums 1, Bauska, Bauskas pilsēta, Bauska Municipality, 3901, LV
- +37163923797
Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere in Bauska's town center, the Bauska Town Hall is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square), the central gathering place in Bauska. The Town Hall is located directly on the square. No costs are associated with walking to the Town Hall.
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Public Transport
Bauska is accessible by bus from Riga and other regional centers. From the Bauska Bus Station, walk northeast on Uzvaras iela, then turn left onto Rīgas iela. Continue straight, crossing the bridge over the Mūsa River. Turn right onto Rātslaukums. The Town Hall will be on your left. A single bus fare from Riga to Bauska costs approximately 3-45 EUR. Walking from the bus station to the town hall takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Bauska, though they may not be readily available for immediate hailing on the street. It is best to call a local taxi service or pre-book a taxi. From anywhere in the town center, a taxi ride to the Bauska Town Hall should be short and relatively inexpensive, costing approximately 5-10 EUR. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
