The New Castle, home of Cesis museum, regained its former grace after recent restoration. Historic interiors of the castle host an exciting exhibition, which tells the story of the significance of Cesis in the history of Latvia. An unforgettable view of the town and the old castle ruins opens from the tower of the castle.
Ruins of the Medieval Castle
Cesis castle is a witness of 800 years of eventful history. It has experienced periods of both splendid prosperity and undeserved oblivion. 500 years ago Cesis castle was the mightiest medieval stronghold in Livonia, but today it’s the most impressive and the best preserved castle ruin in Latvia.
The Western Tower
Finding your way up the narrow spiral staircase of the tower with a candle lantern, you’ll get to the most remarkable interior of all Latvia’s medieval castles – the Master’s Chamber. Exploration of the tower will be crowned by the fascinating sight of Cesis from the tower’s upper floor built on the eve of the First World War.
The Southern Tower
During medieval times the basement of the southern tower served as a dungeon. Go down into the grim underground room and you’ll be able to sense how unpleasant and damp it is today – as it was 500 years ago.
Ancient jewellery smithy
In his workshop experimental archaeologist Daumants Kalniņš will introduce you to ancient Latgallian traditions of jewellery making and wearing, as well as give an opportunity to try on replicas of the ancient jewellery made in the smithy.
Dismantled statue of Lenin
During the Soviet occupation the statue of Lenin was erected in the central square of Cesis town. The statue made by the talented local sculptor Kārlis Jansons has found its temporary home in the castle grounds.
Medieval activity centre
Get to know the Middle Ages by trying archery, testing your agility and luck in medieval games, trying on armour or tasting food and drink made according to medieval recipes.
Cēsis exhibition hall
In Cesis exhibition hall, located in the former stables of the castle manor, you can see different kinds of art exhibitions, as well as enjoy a varied programme of academic and contemporary music.
Castle park
Established in the foot of the castle ruins, Castle Park is one of the most beautiful landscape parks in Latvia. The silhouette of the castle ruins is the main accent in the landscape of the park, but the reflection of the castle in the mirror of the pond adds unique romantic atmosphere.
Iron Age Hillfort
Riekstu Kalns is an ancient hillfort where 1,000 years ago a timber castle stood belonging to the Wends, ancient inhabitants of Cesis. In the beginning of the 13th century, when a stone castle on the nearby plateau was being built, the castle of the Wends was home to the order of religious crusaders called the Sword Brothers.
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