Turaida Castle, Sigulda, Latvia

Turaida Castle is a recently reconstructed medieval castle in Turaida. The castle was originally constructed in the Brick Gothic style in 1214 under Albert, archbishop of Riga, on the site of the destroyed wooden castle of the Livonian leader Caupo of Turaida. Construction and development of the fortifications continued to the 17th century, when the castle started to lose its strategic importance. It was badly damaged by fire in 1776 and not reconstructed, and in the course of time fell into ruin.

Restoration began in the 1970s and a castle wing is now the centrepiece of the Turaida Museum Reserve, which also includes the oldest wooden church in Vidzeme and its surrounding Livonian cemetery, containing for example the the grave of Maija, the Rose of Turaida, a sculpture park celebrating Latvian folksong and the beautifully landscaped castle grounds. The current count of Turaida is Kristaps Peake and it maintains a small garrison.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

L.V. (2 years ago)
Went on wintery day. Parking is a bit tricky - need to park on other side of the road and pay. Plus not to park on bus parking. Nice view, interesting to walk and read about history. Recommended.

Sharon Perry (2 years ago)
Such a beautiful place we didn't allow ourselves enough time here it is truly spectacular lots of walks to do around the castle and area

suraiya iqbal (2 years ago)
Turaida Castle is a recently reconstructed medieval castle in Turaida, in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, on the opposite bank of the Gauja River from Sigulda. It's an amazing experience visiting the castle in autumn. With changing colors, falling leaves, slight cold air, and the breathtaking view from the top of the castle take you to another level. Must visit spot in Latvia ??

Mikk (2 years ago)
Very interesting and full of history. Ticket costs 6 euros, you can pay for the parking at the ticket office. And take at least half a day to see all the places, because that place is large. Theres is a lot of sights to see and walking up and down the stairs all day grows your leg muscles a bunch. I think its best to visit during the summer months, more things to see and you can also enjoy the beautiful, big garden.

Ladislav Velebil (2 years ago)
No doubt one of the highlights of Latvia. The tower is likely the most important tihing to visit there as it gives you beautiful view over surroundings. Easy parking nearby with possibility to pay by app or at ticket office.

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