The Livonian Order Castle is one of the oldest medieval fortresses that has survived to this day. In 1290 the castle was first chronicled and this date is now considered to be the year of Ventspils’ foundation. In 1995 there was begun extensive archaelogical research and renovation of the Castle. Renovating the Castle, there were retained both niches of the 14th century and wall paintings of the 15th century, door openings of the 17th century and prision doors of the 19th century. Now outwardly the Castle has obtained its 19th century look.
In the summer of 2012, restoration and renovation works were completed in the Livonian Order’s palace and the most important rooms of the palace were opened to visitors – including the chapel, the chapter hall, the sleeping room of the order’s brothers and the dining room with the exposition “Ventspils city and county in the course of history under different powers”. The oldest church room in Kurzeme can also be viewed here, and the ancient consecration crosses, which are most probably attributed to the 14th-15th centuries, are a rarity in Latvia.
The Livonian Order castle differs from other medieval fortresses with its interior, where modern design of museum exhibits’ stands harmonizes with the historic environment. There is located the museum of Ventspils which is recognized as one of the most up-to-date museums in Baltic States.
You can learn about the history of the Castle, the city and the port via the digitalised exposition “Living History” which has earned the praise of historians and is regularly updated with new information.
The Livonian Order Castle offers activities all year round: concerts, history and art exhibitions on various topics.
For younger audience museum’s employees offer educational activities and creative workshops, which in active way stimulate interests about Ventspils’ history.
Entrance ticket prices
For adults:
5 EUR or 4.30 EUR + 70 venti / from 1.11-30.04. 3.00 EUR or 2.30 + 70 venti.
For children in school, students, pensioners:
2.00 EUR or 1.50 EUR + 50 venti.
Family ticket (2 adults + 1-5 children):
10 EUR or 8.30 EUR + 170 venti. Family ticket 01.11.-30.04. EUR 6.00 or EUR 4.30 + 170 venti
Free of charge:
for a disabled person of group I and his accompanying person;
for a disabled person of II group;
For preschool children;
A visit to the exhibition hall
For schoolchildren, students, pensioners: 1.00 EUR
Adults: 2 EUR