The spooky Cesis Castle in Latvia!

Photo. Cesis Castle in Cesis City, Latvia. © Travel Explorations.

Cēsis medieval castle was one of the first stone fortifications built within the borders of ancient Latvia by German crusaders. It has been rebuilt and expanded on several occasions.

Especially for me and my friend, we took our time to explore and admire the old castle. It was an exciting experience going back to the middle age in Latvia. I could think that once upon a time, Cesis was protected with thick walls and considered by the whole of Europe as the capital of the Livonian Order. Today, Cesis is one of the greenest and cleanest towns in Latvia.

Photo. Inside the Cesis Castle in Cesis City, Latvia. © Travel Explorations.

Cesis City in Latvia is a historical site. Previous year locals celebrated its 800th anniversary. Cesis is located in the northern part of the Vidzeme Central upland. Cesis City has several interesting sights as May Park, Rigas street (shopping), St. John’s Church, Holy Spring, Victory Monument, Square of Rose and the Medieval Castle.

The centre of housing was the stone castle of the Livonian Order with its three fortified forecastles. The town was also encircled by a dolomite stone wall with eight towers and five gates. A Romantic-style landscape garden featuring a landscaped pond in the middle was created on the castle grounds. It`s possible to climb the castle tower, which provides a wonderful view of Gauja National Park.

Photo. Outside the Cesis Castle in Cesis City, Latvia. © Travel Explorations.

Buildings from the medieval ages include St. John's Church (built 1281-1284), the ruins of the Order's castle, and fragments of the fortification walls at Vaïòu and Palasta Streets. In addition, the ancient road network and building plots have survived from medieval times, although many of the buildings themselves have been ruined through wars and fires (the last in 1748).

Latvia is a small country, both in large and number of inhabitants, but it has much to offer travel adventurers. The country is situated in Eastern (Northern) Europe. It`s one of the three Baltic States.

Latvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, Belarus on the south east, and the Baltic Sea on the west. The most famous travel spot is the capital Riga, a World Heritage Site.

More about Lativa and Riga in coming articles.

Stein Morten Lund, 14 March 2006