Krustpils Castle Travel Guide

Krustpils Castle, a prominent landmark in Jēkabpils, stands as a testament to Latvia's medieval heritage. Constructed in 1237 by the Archbishop of Riga, Nikolaus of Magdeburg, the castle initially served as a fortification along the Daugava River. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous shifts in power and purpose, evolving from an archbishop's stronghold to a Polish manor, a military base, and finally, a museum.The castle's history is rich and varied. In 1585, it became the property of Baron Nikolai von Korff, whose family owned it for the next 300 years. Following World War I, the castle housed the Latgale Artillery Regiment, and during the Soviet era, it was used by the Soviet Army. Since 1996, the Jēkabpils History Museum has managed the castle, undertaking its restoration and opening its doors to the public.Today, visitors can explore the castle's well-preserved medieval architecture and delve into its multifaceted history through various exhibitions. The museum features seven permanent exhibitions, including "Krustpils. Jēkabpils. Daugava," "Old Believers in Jēkabpils," and "Fighting for Freedom in the 20th Century". The castle also hosts cultural events and offers guided tours in multiple languages. The castle tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.