Ķēniņkalns: Talsi's Hill of Kings

Ķēniņkalns, rising 93 meters above sea level, is more than just a hill; it's a landmark steeped in legend and local history. According to folklore, Ķēniņkalns was created when people, out of respect for a buried Couronian king, carried soil in their hats and aprons to form a memorial. While the legend adds to its mystique, historical documents suggest the name may originate from Karl König, a German owner of a house nearby in 1858. In the late 19th century, with the support of the Association of Latvians, Ķēniņkalns was transformed into a town park, complete with trees, decorative shrubs, and a romantic wooden stairway of 122 steps. Known as “Ķeizardārzs” or “Pilsētas dārzs” (City Garden), it quickly became a favorite spot for leisurely walks and recreation. In 1958, the Festivāla square was built at the foot of the hill, hosting concerts and events for decades. Today, visitors can explore the well-kept paths of Ķēniņkalns, encountering environmental objects like “Frame Talsi,” offering views of Vilkmuiža Lake, and “Nine Hats,” dedicated to Talsi's nine hills. A monument called “Koklētājs,” created by Kārlis Zemdega and Vilnis Titāns, stands in honor of fallen freedom fighters of Latvia since 1996. Ķēniņkalns also features a small stage and recreational area. At the foot of the hill lies the Talsi Folk House, nearly a century old, housing the Talsi district's Tourism Information Center.