Vienkoču parks

About the museum

The Vienkoču parks was created by the craftsman and researcher Rihards Vidzickis in Gauja National Park, near Augšlīgatne. The park is named after the vienkoči – objects made from a single whole piece of wood – which are one of the main subjects of his research. The park opened to the public in 2007.

The idea for the Woodworking Museum arose in the summer of 1999, when Vidzickis bought the old workshop equipment from the Jaunalēni farmstead in Naukšēni municipality and moved it to Līgatne; this equipment forms a large part of the exhibition. Planning of the museum began in 2011, and it received its first visitors in 2014. The museum is set up as a historic workshop in the style of the late 19th and early 20th century; most of the tools are in working order, and it presents the development of woodworking from the Stone Age to the present day.

In the park you can see vienkoču objects and sculptures, models of historic manors and buildings, a blacksmith's forge, a nature trail and task trails. The Woodworking Museum can be fully explored only with a guide, booked in advance. The park has received the cultural sign “Latviskais mantojums” (Latvian Heritage).

Highlights

• Woodworking Museum, set up as an old workshop
• Vienkoču objects and sculptures made from a single piece of wood
• Models of historic manors and buildings
• Blacksmith's forge with sword forging
• Nature trail and task trails

Permanent exhibition

• Kokamatniecības muzejs – A museum set up as an old workshop with tools and wood samples, telling the story of woodworking from the Stone Age to the present day.

Founded

2007

Admission & discounts

Park entrance costs €5 per person. With the Cēsu Drauga karte (Cēsis Friend card), an ISIC or ITIC card or the Latvian Honorary Family card, the entrance ticket is €1 cheaper. Evening walk with torches: minimum fee €160, or €16–21 for adults, €14–19 for children aged 7–17 and €10–15 for pre-school children.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations
• Playground / play area

The park has a children's playground, task trails, creative workshops and picnic areas; the trails are suitable for families with children.

Getting there & parking

The park is near the village of Augšlīgatne and the A2 motorway; in navigation enter “Vienkoču parks”.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Local souvenirs are available; the park has picnic areas, a large canopy and a rest cabin.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

The park offers a natural venue for celebrations and events, including a wooden wedding programme.

Plan your visit