Dundagas pils

About the museum

Dundaga Castle is the largest castle in North Courland. It was built in the mid-13th century for the needs of the Riga Cathedral Chapter; in 1434 it was bought by the Bishop of Courland, and from the 16th to the 20th century it belonged to the Maidel and Osten-Sacken families. The castle was repeatedly damaged by fire and rebuilt, most recently after the burning in 1905. Many legends are associated with the castle, the best known being that of the Green Maiden.

Today the castle hosts tours and events, and an art and music school and a weaving workshop operate here. In one of the exhibition halls there is a gallery of the castle's earlier owners and a small exhibition of photographs and drawings on the stages of the castle's construction. On the first floor is the permanent exhibition “Krokodilu ligzda” (Crocodile's Nest) on Arvīds Blūmentāls (1925–2006), known worldwide as Krokodilu Harijs. Since 2008 the vaulted halls have housed a medal exhibition created by the Latvian Medal Art Club.

Highlights

• Largest medieval castle of North Courland
• Permanent exhibition “Krokodilu ligzda” (Crocodile's Nest) on Krokodilu Harijs
• Medal art exhibition in the vaulted halls
• Gallery of the castle's former owners
• Legend of the Green Maiden

Permanent exhibitions

• Krokodilu ligzda – Permanent exhibition on the first floor on Arvīds Blūmentāls (1925–2006), a native of Dundaga, former crocodile hunter and opal miner in Australia, known worldwide as Krokodilu Harijs.
• Medaļu mākslas ekspozīcija – Since 2008 the vaulted halls have displayed works by artists of the Latvian Medal Art Club and medals gifted by foreign colleagues, as well as several medals dedicated to outstanding people of Dundaga.
• Pils īpašnieku galerija un būvniecības izstāde – Portrait gallery of the castle's earlier owners and a small exhibition of photographs and drawings on the stages of the castle's construction.

Admission & discounts

The price is stated per tour of the castle.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

• Wi-Fi

The castle offers wireless internet, souvenirs and tastings of local food.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Weddings / ceremonies

The castle is used for large celebrations and weddings; accommodation is also available at the castle.

Plan your visit