- Address: Parka iela 3, Lennewarden, Lielvārdes pilsēta, LV-5070, Latvia;
- Built: in the 11th-12th centuries;
- Phone: +371 29 465 792.
Lielvard Castle is a tourist object that demonstrates the life of the Livonian ruler in the 11th-12th centuries. The fortress was the last project of this level, built of wood. In the next century, government complexes were built from stone. Therefore Lielvarde wooden castle is a unique object.
What is remarkable about Lielvard Castle?
First of all, it should be said that the modern castle is only a reconstruction, but it should be noted that it is done very accurately. The castle in Liervard is restored in real size and in its place, which today is a park zone. The area of the complex is 29 acres. At that time, under such conditions, up to 50 members of a noble family could live. But it should be taken into account that the rulers took care of their lodged, so the large area of the castle is explained by the fact that there are rooms that are designed to shelter the population in case of an attack. There are also grounds for defense. Thus, in addition to representatives of the elite in the castle could accommodate another 800 ordinary people.
Lielvard Castle is a private project that was realized by a Latvian artist and a well-known archaeologist. Thanks to this, the reconstruction corresponds to the real lock as accurately as possible. The only thing that the structure differs from its prototype is the terrain. At that time, castles were not built in the forests, but only in places where it would be difficult to reach the enemy or where it would be convenient to conduct defense. For example, these are hills on the banks of rivers or lakes, digging deep moats around the locks. The reconstructed castle was built on a plain among the trees, since it was impossible to redeem the same piece of land. But, in spite of this, the researchers were able to reproduce as accurately as possible the ancient building.
How to get there?
To get to Lielvarde Castle, you need to take the A6 motorway and get to the center of Lielvarde. Near the Rembates muizas parks curl up to the shore and thus you will find yourself near the Lielvarde castle.