The remains of the Castle can be visited
CastleCēsis
Cēsis Old Castle
The Cēsis Castle Ruins, also known as Wenden, stand as an impressive testament to medieval architecture in Latvia. Located in the Vidzeme region, this former order castle tells a turbulent story of power, destruction, and reconstruction, which visitors can still experience firsthand today.
History+
The origins of settlement in Cēsis date back to an ancient Latgallian wooden fortification on a hill near the current castle park. In 1209, German crusaders of the Livonian Brothers of the Sword began constructing the stone castle of Wenden. Over time, it was expanded and fortified with three outer baileys. From 1237 to 1561, albeit with interruptions, it served as the residence of the Master of the Teutonic Order, making it a significant center for the order. A dramatic event occurred in 1577 when the garrison blew up the castle during a siege by the troops of Ivan the Terrible. Although the castle was rebuilt afterwards, it met its final destruction in 1721 during the Great Northern War.
Location+
The Cēsis Castle Ruins are situated in the town of Cēsis, within the Vidzeme region of Latvia. It lies at an elevation of approximately 103 meters above sea level.
On site+
Today, the Cēsis Castle Ruins are accessible to visitors and can be explored, offering deep insights into their historical significance.
Nearby+
- New Cēsis Castle (Castle), approx. 0.1 km away
- Helme Order Castle (Castle), approx. 86.4 km away
- Karksi Castle Ruins (Castle), approx. 89.9 km away
- Biržai Castle (Castle), approx. 127.4 km away
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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: Maciek Wegrzyn
This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.
Location: 57.3135, 25.2703