10 Things to Do in Jēkabpils Castle Ruins (Jēkabpils pilskalns), Jēkabpils, Latvia
Jēkabpils Castle Ruins (Jēkabpils pilskalns) is a spectacular medieval castle located in the city of Jēkabpils, Latvia. Built in the 13th century, the castle was the seat of the Livonian Order, a powerful military and religious order in the region. The castle was destroyed in the 16th century and is now a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the castle ruins.
1. Explore the Ruins: The ruins of Jēkabpils Castle are a great place to explore and learn about the history of the region. The ruins are open to the public and visitors can wander through the remains of the castle, taking in the views and imagining what life was like in the Middle Ages.
2. Visit the Tower: The castle’s main tower is still standing and visitors can climb up to the top for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. The tower is also home to an exhibition about the history of the castle and the region.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Visitors can join a guided tour of the castle ruins to learn more about the history of the castle and the region. The tour guides are knowledgeable and can provide interesting insights into the history of the castle and its inhabitants.
4. Visit the Museum: The Jēkabpils Castle Museum is located in the castle ruins and offers visitors a chance to learn more about the castle’s history. The museum houses a variety of artifacts from the castle’s past, including weapons, armor, and other relics.
5. Attend a Medieval Festival: Every year, the castle ruins host a medieval festival, complete with jousting, music, and other activities. The festival is a great way to experience the atmosphere of a medieval castle and learn more about the region’s history.
6. Climb the Walls: Visitors can climb the castle walls for a unique perspective of the castle ruins. The walls are in surprisingly good condition, and visitors can get a great view of the surrounding countryside from the top.
7. Take a Boat Ride: Visitors can take a boat ride on the nearby Daugava River for a different perspective of the castle ruins. The boat ride offers a peaceful and relaxing way to explore the area and take in the sights.
8. Visit the Local Market: The local market is a great place to buy souvenirs and other local products. The market is held every Sunday and is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine.
9. Picnic in the Park: The castle ruins are surrounded by a beautiful park, which is a great place to have a picnic or just relax in the shade. The park is a great place to spend a few hours and take in the views.
10. Go Bird Watching: The castle ruins are a great place for bird watching, as the area is home to a variety of species. The castle walls provide a great vantage point for spotting birds, and visitors can often see birds of prey, such as eagles and hawks.
Visiting the castle ruins of Jēkabpils is a great way to experience the history of the region and learn more about the fascinating medieval past of Latvia. From exploring the ruins to attending a medieval festival, there are plenty of things to do in and around the castle ruins.