Livonian Order Castle, Ventspils Travel Guide

4.6 (1661)

Explore centuries of history at Ventspils Castle, a remarkably preserved medieval fortress and home to the engaging Ventspils Museum.

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Livonian Order Castle

The Livonian Order Castle in Ventspils, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest and best-preserved medieval fortresses in Latvia. Housing the Ventspils Museum since 2001, it offers a captivating glimpse into the region's history through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

A brief summary to Livonian Order Castle

Jāņa iela 17, Ventspils, 3601, LV
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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 Livonian Order Castle.

Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience exploring the castle and museum.
Check the Ventspils Museum website for information on special exhibitions, concerts, and events happening during your visit.
Explore the castle courtyard and surrounding area for scenic views and photo opportunities.

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Explore Livonian Order Castle on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From the Ventspils city center, the Livonian Order Castle is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head towards Jāņa iela, where the castle is located at number 17. The castle's architecture is visible from a distance as you approach.
Public Transport

Take a local bus to the Ventspils Bus Station. From the bus station, walk towards the city center and follow Jāņa iela to reach the castle. The walk is about 15 minutes. A single bus fare within the city is approximately €1-2.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Ventspils. A short taxi ride from the city center or the bus station to the Livonian Order Castle will cost approximately €5-10.

Discover more about Livonian Order Castle

Ventspils Castle, a remarkable architectural monument, stands as a testament to the medieval era and the enduring legacy of the Livonian Order. Constructed in the second half of the 13th century, with its first historical mention in 1290, the castle has witnessed centuries of transformation, serving as a fortress, residence, garrison, and even a prison. Its remarkably preserved original layout makes it a unique example of medieval architecture in Latvia.Throughout its history, the castle has been controlled by the Livonian Order, served as a residence for city masters, and been damaged during the Polish-Swedish War. Rebuilt in the 17th century, it later housed a Lutheran church, an Orthodox church, and a prison, reflecting the changing tides of power and influence in the region. The Soviet garrison occupied the castle until 1983.Today, the castle is home to the Ventspils Museum, which opened in 2001 after extensive restoration. The museum's exhibits showcase the history of the castle, the city, and the port, with a special emphasis on interactive and digital displays. Visitors can explore the 'Living History' digital exposition, view 15th-17th century mural fragments, and even try their hand at archery in the courtyard. The castle also hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and other cultural events throughout the year.