- Address: Ventspils novads, Jāņa iela 17, Ventspils, LV-3602;
- Phones: +371 63622031, +371 63626288;
- Website: www.muzejs.ventspils.lv;
- Operating time: Mon. - closed, Tues. - Sun. 10:00 - 18:00;
- Admission: 2.10 €.
Ventspils Castle of the Livonian Order is a symbol of the city of Ventspils , a fortress of the 13th century. on the bank of the river Venta, as well as the oldest building in Ventspils. Perhaps, there is no second Order Castle in Latvia , which has survived to this day in this form.
History of the castle
Ventspils Castle of the Livonian Order was built in the second half of the 13th century. in an economically and strategically successful place - on the left bank of the river Venta, not far from the place where it flows into the Baltic Sea. The castle tower for many years served as a beacon for sailing ships.
Already in 1290, the mention of Ventspils Castle is found in historical sources.
Throughout the centuries, the castle changed its purpose several times: it functioned as a fortress, as a residence of the urban district, as a district prison and as a prisoner of war camp.
At the end of XX century. The castle was reconstructed and restored. Originally wanted to restore its medieval appearance, but then the castle was decided to give the kind that he had at the beginning of the XIX century.
Castle and Ventspils Museum
Since 2001, Ventspils Museum has been working in the castle. The permanent exposition of the museum is dedicated to the history of the city and the entire Ventspils region. Of particular interest is the digital exposition "Living History".
Modernly designed artifacts are inscribed here in the historical interior, ancient elements of architecture are combined with interactive screens and digital installations. The atmosphere of the ancient castle is enhanced by sounds created on the computer.
What to do in the castle?
In addition to the museum's expositions, the Ventspils Castle of the Livonian Order offers a lot of entertainment for tourists. Here you can:
- Look into the prison of the XIX century. with lone cameras and feel that they experienced confined prisoners here.
- Shoot from the bow in the courtyard of the castle for a fee.
- Shoot from the real gun! In the castle is the only active cannon in Latvia (do not be afraid - cartridges are idle).
- Visit the knightly tournament - costumed battles regularly take place right before the castle.
- Go to the tavern Melnais sivens ("Black Piglet") and taste the cuisine of a real medieval tavern.
Cunning for tourists
For visiting the castle you can partially pay with ventami. Venti is the currency of Ventspils, which you can earn on the Internet, answering questions about the city and carrying out assignments, and getting it in the information tourist center.
How to get there?
The museum of the Ventspils Castle of the Livonian Order is located at ul. Jan, 17. A tourist who just arrived in Ventspils, can quickly reach him:
- from the bus station - on foot for 10 minutes;
- from the passenger terminal of the seaport - on foot for 15 minutes;
- from the International Airport Ventspils - by taxi for 10 min.