Cēsu Viduslaiku pils
Ruins of the Livonian Order medieval castle in Cēsis, with a visit to the west tower with lanterns and a multimedia exhibition in the south tower.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Cēsis Castle is a witness to 800 years of history. Five centuries ago it was the most powerful medieval fortress in Livonia, and today it is the most impressive and best-preserved castle ruin in Latvia. Over many centuries the castle, together with the town of Cēsis, experienced battles against Russian, Polish and Swedish troops.
The castle was rebuilt and extended several times and acquired its present architectural form at the beginning of the 16th century. After receiving lanterns at the visitor centre, visitors can walk through the west tower and the master’s living quarters with a star vault and fragments of wall paintings, while from the tower attic there is a view of the castle ruins, the forecourt, the castle park and the town.
From May to the end of September, the multimedia exhibition “Dzīve uz pulvermucas” (Life on a Powder Keg) operates in the south tower, formerly called Garais Hermanis (Tall Hermann). During the summer holidays visitors can try medieval games in the castle garden, get to know old crafts and medieval plants.
Highlights
- West tower and the master’s living rooms with a star vault
- South tower with the multimedia exhibition “Dzīve uz pulvermucas” (Life on a Powder Keg) (May–September)
- Medieval kitchen garden and craft workshops in the summer holidays
- View of the castle ruins, the castle park and Cēsis from the tower attic
- Tours of the castle and the Old Town by prior booking
Permanent exhibition
- Dzīve uz pulvermucas – Multimedia exhibition in the south tower (May–September) about life in Livonia five centuries ago.
Admission & discounts
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
- Family tours & workshops
- Hands-on stations
In the summer holidays children can try medieval games and pastimes in the castle garden.
Getting there & parking
The visitor centre is at 9 Pils laukums (Castle Square).
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Weddings / ceremonies
The castle is a venue for wedding ceremonies.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes · approx. 60 min |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Tours of the castle, the Old Town and the surroundings of Cēsis must be booked in advance by phone on +371 2657 6111 or by email at pils@cesis.lv. Lanterns are handed out at the visitor centre. |