Turaida Castle (Turaidas pils in Latvian; known historically as Treiden or Treyden in German, meaning 'Thor's garden' in Livonian) stands as a newly reconstructed medieval fortress located in Turaida, within Latvia's Vidzeme region. Positioned on the opposing side of the Gauja River from Sigulda.
Turaida Castle, a focal point of the Museum Reserve, is an imposing sight, towering above the treeline and visible from the air or Sigulda's opposite riverbank. Comprising the northern gate tower as the forepart, a central highest tower, and the southern tower-shaped section forming the rear view. In 1214, construction began on the castle under Archbishop Albert's direction for the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, replacing a prior Livonian wooden castle. Initially named Fredeland or 'Land of Peace,' it became locally known as 'Turaida.' The castle, primarily red-brick, evolved with additional defenses in the 14th and 15th centuries, adding the tower-shaped southern section and the semi-rounded western tower with domestic buildings. Despite minor 17th-century reconstructions, the castle lost significance and was abandoned after a 1776 fire, gradually falling into ruin. By the 20th century, only fragmented remnants remained. Since 1976, ongoing archaeological digs led to extensive restoration, showcasing the castle's original state. Exhibitions recount the castle's history and the Gauja Livonians. The main tower offers breathtaking views of the Gauja Valley within the Turaida Museum Reserve.

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Turaida Castle - Wikipedia

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Inserted: 15-12-2023 23:12:21