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Latvia

Gauja River (3)

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The Gauja River, known as Koiva jõgi in Estonian and Livländische Aa in German, flows through Latvia's Vidzeme region. Remarkably, it's Latvia's sole major river with both its source and mouth within the country, spanning 460 km, with around a fifth traversing through the Gauja National Park. Within this stretch, the river cuts through the 1 to 2.5 km wide Gauja valley, reaching depths of up to 85 m near Sigulda. This makes the Gauja the longest river in Latvia when considering only the segments within its borders. Comparatively, the Daugava River, while longer in total, extends for 367 km within Latvia. The distinctive sandstone cliffs lining the Gauja and its tributaries began forming 370 to 300 million years ago during the Devonian period.

Gauja - Wikipedia

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The Sigulda Medieval Castle ruins, situated at the Gauja valley's edge in Latvia, trace back to its initial construction in 1207 as a castellum-type fortress. Over time, it transformed into a convent-style structure and served as the residence for the Land Marshal of the Livonian Order starting in 1432. Recognized as a significant tourist attraction, the old castle walls underwent multiple fortifications during the 20th century. Reopened to visitors in 2012, the castle invites everyone to immerse themselves in its historical ambiance, showcasing the backdrop of numerous past events. Visitors can ascend the North Tower and the Main Gate Tower, experiencing the medieval atmosphere firsthand.Sigulda Medieval Castle has a rich history tied to the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, a German 'warrior monk' order later known as the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Initially built in 1207 as a fortress, it transformed into a convent-type structure, serving as the Land Marshal's residence from 1432 onwards. The castle's strategic placement along the Gauja River, in competition with the nearby Turaida Bishop's Castle, was crucial. Under various dominions like the Livonian Order and the Teutonic Order, the castle underwent significant changes. Damaged during wars, it was restored multiple times, passing through different owners, including the Polish governor and later becoming a private estate. In the 19th century, the castle was redesigned, a new structure was built by Prince Kropotkin’s family, and post-World War I, it fell under Monument Board protection. Extensive renovation work and research were undertaken from the 1960s onward, supported by the European Union for renovations that concluded in 2012.

Sigulda Castle, also referred to as Sigulda New Castle (Siguldas jaunā pils in Latvian), was constructed in 1878, showcasing the neo-Gothic architectural style. Originally intended as the residence for the Kropotkin family, owners of the manor, its ownership and purpose underwent multiple alterations over time. Since 1993, the Sigulda Region Council has been situated within the castle's premises.The Sigulda manor's focal point, evolving from the Sigulda Medieval Castle's fore-castle during the 17th century, boasts 18th and 19th-century structures linked to the Von Borghs and Kropotkins. Notable among these are the Summer Castle, New Castle, White Castle, vagar's house, servants' quarters, a barn, laundry, and a fruit and vegetable cellar. Enclosed by rugged boulder walls and a grand gate structure, this central area retains historical charm. The New Castle, constructed between 1878 and 1881 during Duchess Olga and Duke Dimitry Kropotkins' tenure, reused materials from a 17th-century predecessor. Built in neo-Gothic style by Jānis Mengelis, its architectural value lies in Gothic elements and the hues of repurposed boulders. The panoramic view from its windows encompasses the Gauja River valley, Sigulda castle ruins, Krimulda, and Turaida. Following World War I, the castle was destroyed, later becoming the Writers’ Castle in 1922, hosting literary figures and undergoing substantial restoration. In 1934, the Latvian Press Society acquired the castle, initiating significant reconstruction led by architect August Birkhans in 1936–1937. The tower was heightened, the terrace expanded, and modern interior design introduced, shaping it into a prominent example of national modern design in the Baltic region. The monument of Atis Kronvalds was unveiled in 1938. Post-war, it served various purposes, including housing for high state officials and a rehabilitation center until Latvian independence restoration. From 1993 to 2002, it housed the Sigulda City Council, transitioning to the Sigulda District Council from 2003 onwards. The adjacent Summer Castle, fashioned in classicism style, initially served as an orthodox church before being remodeled for various uses. Additionally, the former brewery was transformed into an art gallery within the Sigulda manor.

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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