Sigulda Medeival Castle, Sigulda, Latvia

The Livonian Order Castle of Sigulda was built in 1207 as a castella type castle, however, it was later rebuilt into a convent type building. The Livonian Order were known as “warrior monks”, German crusaders who had travelled to the Baltic region to fight and Christianise the local pagans.

It was from this castle that these crusaders controlled the entire Gauja Valley. This made Sigulda Castle a pivotal regional stronghold for centuries under the control of the Order. After the region got caught up in the war between Sweden and Poland in the 17th century, this castle sustained damage and quickly lost its significance.

We spent the night in Siguldaa in order to be able to visit this and other castles in the area, and I would recommend it. We had a very nice evening meal, rented an apartment that had a washer and dryer (always nice mid trip to get everything clean once again), and was nice to walk around in. If you are going to do something beyyond Riga in Latvia, and are not thinking a beautiful outdoor place, this should be considered.