Cēsis Medieval Castle
NB! Ticket sales end 60 minutes before closing time.
Cēsis Castle is a witness to 800 years of rich and eventful history. Five hundred years ago, it was the most powerful medieval fortress in Livonia. Today, it is the most impressive and best-preserved castle ruins in Latvia. Throughout the centuries, the castle has shared its fate with the town of Cēsis in battles against Russian, Polish, and Swedish troops.
Repeatedly rebuilt and expanded, Cēsis Castle acquired its current architectural form in the early 16th century. After receiving lanterns at the Visitor Centre, you will be able to explore the castle’s Western Tower and the master’s living quarters inside it—a unique 16th-century interior featuring a splendid star vault, artificial stone vault consoles, and fragments of wall paintings. From the attic of the tower, you’ll enjoy an impressive view over the remaining castle ruins, the forecourt, the Castle Park, and the town.
From May to the end of September, the Southern Tower hosts a multimedia exhibition titled “Living on a Powder Keg”, which tells the story of life 500 years ago, when the inhabitants of Livonia lived in anticipation of inevitable change. The Southern Tower, once called “Tall Herman”, is one of the most notable examples of medieval military architecture in the Baltics.
During summer weekends, everyone is welcome to the castle garden to try various medieval games and activities together with the castle residents, learn ancient crafts, and explore the medieval plants—vegetables, fruits, and herbs—growing in the garden with the castle gardener.
For more information and to hear ancient legends, join a guided tour—excursions around the Old Town, the castle, and the surroundings of Cēsis must be booked in advance by phone at +371 26576111 or via email at pils@cesis.lv.
Ticket prices for the summer and winter seasons can be found here.
30% atlaide ieejas maksai Cēsu pils kompleksā.
