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Founded: 10th century ADCategory: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Latvia
Historical period: Viking Age (Latvia)
Interesting Sites Nearby
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Āraiši Lake Castle is the only reconstruction of a 8th-10th century fortified settlement in Europe; a unique object, which this year is nominated as the Latvian archaeological monument of 2020.
The park excels with its unique archaeological findings, the placement of reconstruction on its original environment, and the well-preserved cultural and historical landscape of Vidzeme.
The ruins of the Āraiši “castella” type medieval castle can be seen on the shore of the lake, but the buildings on Meitu Island are designed as reconstructions according to the archaeological data obtained in Latvia and neighbouring countries about these types of Stone and Bronze Age dwellings.
The Visitors Centre hosts a permanent exposition, in which, for the first time since the excavations, the original evidence obtained and the story of Jānis Apals are introduced.
Nearby, within walking distance, there are other attractions - Āraiši Church and windmill, as well as the Husky dog farm.
References:The Beckov castle stands on a steep 50 m tall rock in the village Beckov. The dominance of the rock and impression of invincibility it gaves, challenged our ancestors to make use of these assets. The result is a remarkable harmony between the natural setting and architecture.
The castle first mentioned in 1200 was originally owned by the King and later, at the end of the 13th century it fell in hands of Matúš Èák. Its owners alternated - at the end of the 14th century the family of Stibor of Stiborice bought it.
The next owners, the Bánffys who adapted the Gothic castle to the Renaissance residence, improved its fortifications preventing the Turks from conquering it at the end of the 16th century. When Bánffys died out, the castle was owned by several noble families. It fell in decay after fire in 1729.
The history of the castle is the subject of different legends.