Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem: A Tribute to Northern Latvia's Liberators
A poignant memorial in Plācis honoring the soldiers who fought for Northern Latvia's liberation in the pivotal Cēsis battles of 1919.
Located in the center of Plācis, within the Straupe Parish, the Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem is a significant historical landmark dedicated to the soldiers who liberated Northern Latvia in the battles of Cēsis in 1919. The monument, crafted by the sculptor Teodors Zaļkalns, features a design with symbolic elements reflecting the nation's struggle for freedom. The monument consists of two dolomite supports on a three-tiered base, topped with a dolomite block. The front of the block features a bas-relief depicting a horse harnessed to a plow and a plowman holding reins and a sword. An inscription on the back includes lines by poet Eduards Virza: "To the Liberators of Northern Latvia, as long as crops are sown in these fields, you will be praised and remembered with honor". The monument's unveiling took place on November 8, 1931, with the participation of the then-President of Latvia, Alberts Kviesis. Remarkably, it is one of the few monuments from Latvia's period of independence that was not destroyed during the Soviet era. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, national pride, and remembrance. Visitors can reflect on Latvia's history and appreciate the serene landscape surrounding the memorial.
Local tips
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photos.
- Combine your visit with a trip to other attractions in the Gauja National Park for a full day of exploration.
- Check local listings for commemorative ceremonies that may be taking place during your visit.
A brief summary to Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem
- Plācis, Straupe Parish, Cēsis Municipality, LV
Getting There
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Walking
The monument is located in the center of Plācis, next to the bus stop and Straupe Community Center, making it easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the immediate vicinity. From the Straupe Old Post Station, head southeast along the A3 highway; the monument will be visible on your right within a few minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The monument is directly adjacent to a bus stop in Plācis. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop in Plācis. A single journey ticket from Cēsis to Plācis costs approximately €1-€3. From Riga, the journey will require a change in Cēsis and cost approximately €5-€8 in total.
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Driving
The monument is located directly off the A3 highway (Inčukalns-Valka road) in the center of Plācis. Limited free parking is available near the Straupe Community Center. From Cēsis, head north on the A3; the monument will be on your right. From Valmiera, head south on the A3; the monument will be on your left. There are no tolls on this route.
Attractions Nearby to Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem
Landmarks nearby to Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem
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Piemineklis Ziemeļlatvijas atbrīvotājiem
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Mārkulīči
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Brasla River
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Camping Žagarkalns, Boat rental
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Emila Melngaila memorialais muzejs
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Mala
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Rozu square
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Rožu laukums
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Old Man Time
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Cēsis Tourism Information Center
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Cēsis Exhibition Hall
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“Through the Centuries”
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Former CHEKA building
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“Battle with Centaurus”
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Maija parks