Dzīvesziņas un arodu sēta
Restored historic timber house in the Old Town quarter of Jelgava, with weaving and ceramics workshops; visitors can watch folk costumes being made and book a guided tour or workshop.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The house at Vecpilsētas iela 2 is a building of national architectural significance within the historic centre of Jelgava. Its timber construction indicates that it was built before 1813, when such buildings were no longer permitted in Jelgava. Restoration and reconstruction took place from 2021, and the building opened in July 2022. The timber wall, polychrome wall finish and mantel chimney were restored — the only known restored mantel chimney in Jelgava.
The complex houses weaving and ceramics workshops, a traditional family room (saimes istaba) and a courtyard with a small stage. In the workshops, weavers from the company “Austras raksti” demonstrate the weaving of Zemgale patterned brunči, belts and other fabrics, as well as the sewing and embroidery of folk costumes.
Highlights
- Restored 18th/19th-century timber house with a mantel chimney
- Weaving workshop: demonstrations of Zemgale brunči, belts and fabrics
- Guided tours and workshops, including a bread-baking workshop
- Acquisition of Latvian regional folk costumes and their parts
Permanent exhibition
- Audēju un keramikas darbnīcas, saimes istaba – Restored historic building with weaving demonstrations, a ceramics workshop and a furnished family room.
- Founded
- 2022
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €5 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €2pupils, students and pensioners |
| Families | €102 adults and children of one household. |
| Guided tour in Latvian | €20Price per group. |
| Guided tour in English, German or Russian | €30Price per group. |
Individual visits do not require a booking; guided tours require prior booking.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
| Family ticket | €10 · 2 adults and children of one household. |
|---|
- Family tours & workshops
- Hands-on stations
Creative activities and workshops are offered for children and families.
Getting there & parking
The house is located in the Old Town quarter of Jelgava, next to the memorial sign “Dobeles vārti” (Dobele Gate).
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Museum shop
Latvian regional folk costumes and their components can be bought or ordered on site.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Private parties
Courtyard rental for events is possible (price depends on duration); christening and wedding events also take place.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Audio guide | yes |
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | Guided tours are available in Latvian, English, German and Russian. During the tour you can learn about the history of the building, watch the weavers at work and try weaving yourself. The house also offers educational programmes on traditional Latvian everyday knowledge, a bread-baking workshop and classes on making Zemgale folk costumes. |