Text by Valdis Čeičs, photos by Solveiga Kaļva, www.solveigakalvaphotography.com

Cēsis

The third oldest town in Latvia, and it has kept its medieval spirit until today. It attracts tourists with lovely streets and the medieval castle ruins which you can explore in a candle light. In order to see a great view of the whole town, you can climb up to the tower in the new manor house right next to the medieval castle. The best time to visit the medieval castle is from May to October when the medieval kitchen garden is green, and you can meet local craftsmen, buy metal or leather art souvenirs or create one by yourself in the workshop with a master’s assistance .

Highlights (culture):

• Cēsis medieval castle
• Cēsis old town
• “Mala” artist community
• Vidzeme concert hall
• Cesis Art Festival 
• Kremerata Baltica Festival
• Cello Cēsis

Highlights (nature):

• Rucamavots spring and red cliff
• Ergļu (Eagle) cliff
• Zvartes rock
• Liela Elite (Devil’s owen)
• Licu-Langu cliff
• Lake Raiskums

In nice weather, it is great to walk around the parks near the castle. There are two parks, Castle Park and May Park. The Sieverts family owned this place for five generations, and  they created designs for their own parks. In the May Park you can look for a couple of black swans, Catharine and Earl. In 2014 the locals could submit their ideas on how to call this couple. The Castle Park is exceptionally picturesque thanks to the castle ruins. You can enjoy a romantic boat ride on the pond and, if you are lucky, listen to a concert happening on the outdoor stage. 

The main street in Cesis old town is Riga street which leads to the Rose Square. This ancient market square is the most active social square and it is located in front of the St. Johns Church. The Church is open for visitors, and you can climb up to an observation platform. During the summer, every Friday and Saturday evening from 8PM to 11PM the church is illuminated in various colors, and the light show is complemented with musical performances. Further, Riga street leads to the Līvu square, the first market square in Cēsis. 

VISIT CESIS ON YOUR OWN OR JOIN OUR TOUR – CESIS: MEDIEVAL HERITAGE AND NATURAL TREASURES!