Raiņa Centre operates under the Latgale Central Library and offers interactive guided tours and cultural activities. Visitors can explore the history, cultural heritage, and notable personalities of the left bank of the Daugava River in Daugavpils.

The centre’s exhibition is dedicated to three notable personalities connected with this historical school: the Latvian poet, playwright, translator, theatre practitioner, journalist, and politician Jānis Pliekšāns – Rainis; the botanist, mathematician, and philosopher Kārlis Reinholds Kupfers; and the graphic artist Rihards Zariņš, one of the creators of the Latvian national coat of arms and the author of designs for banknotes, securities, and coins. The centre offers guided tours and creative workshops for school groups, families, and adult visitors.

Permanent Exhibition
Raiņa Centre is located in the building of the former Grīva German School and Rainis Secondary School No. 6. Many outstanding personalities studied here, and their achievements in various fields have made a significant contribution to the development of Latvian culture and science.

Guided Tour “Different Times – Different School”
During the tour, participants learn how schools developed in the Daugavpils area, what characterised German schools in the 19th century, and which subjects Rainis studied. Visitors can explore the most interesting historical events and secrets of the school building and its surroundings, and take part in practical activities by tackling tasks from old school subjects such as calligraphy, poetry writing, rhetoric, or natural sciences.

The tour is available in Latvian, Russian, and English.
Group size: 6–30 participants (larger groups are divided into two).
Materials are included in the ticket price.
Duration: 1 hour.

Creative Workshops
In the workshop “Let’s Get Acquainted – GRAPHICS!” participants explore the works of R. Zariņš, the types of seals created by R. Kupfers, the diversity of graphic techniques, and create their own graphic artwork. Each workshop focuses on creative experimentation and discovering materials and techniques, inspired by the unique legacy of Rainis, Kupfers, and Zariņš. Raiņa Centre provides all necessary materials.

Group size: 6–16 participants.
Duration: 1 hour.

PRICE LIST

Opening hours:
Monday–Friday: 11:00–18:00
Saturday–Sunday: closed
It is also possible to visit the centre at a different time arranged individually in advance.

The post The Сentre of the outstanding Latvian writer Rainis appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The 7th bastion casemate of the Daugavpils Fortress is officially available in its new function – as an open-storage chamber for contemporary ceramics from the Rothko Museum collection.

Open storage is still underused in Latvian museum practice – so far, only a few heritage institutions enable the public to see their treasures beyond the normally closed repository setting. Open-storage facilities aim to give maximum access to museum collections that would otherwise stay behind closed repository doors and be mostly unavailable to the general public. The idea to bring the closely guarded museum collections out into the public eye originated in Canada in the 1970s and 80s. At the start, the new approach was called a radical shift and embodied an early attempt to move beyond the habitual museum practice. Today, this is no longer a new and surprising development. After all, the new museum definition has expanded its functions, lifting into the foreground accessibility to an increasingly broader spectrum of social groups along with diversified communication through tangible and intangible heritage tools.

The Rothko Museum’s open-storage facility displays a significant part of a vast contemporary ceramics collection steadily and purposefully acquired for no less than a decade. Its origins date back to 2013 when the Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre held its first International Ceramic Laboratory Symposium, which became an annual tradition. From then on, the collection has been expanding yearly with the latest symposium output. Other acquisition sources are the Latvia Ceramics Biennale with its Martinsons Award and an eponymous international juried exhibition instituted in 2016, as well as some other juried exhibitions and a few targeted purchases. Professional curators have been attracting domestically and internationally renowned ceramic artists and achieving their representation in the Rothko Museum collection. At this point, the museum’s Contemporary Ceramics Collection has grown to more than 500 artworks, which makes it Latvia’s largest and most valuable repository of contemporary ceramic art.

The new open-storage chamber displays over a hundred artworks by artists from 40 countries. The open-access solution enables the public to explore the diversity of ceramic art and appreciate the artists’ creativity and professionalism in dealing with different earthen materials (from clay and chamotte to stoneware and porcelain) and multiple firing techniques.

The open-storage chamber is available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The entrance is free.

The 7th bastion of the Daugavpils Fortress was restored in an EU-funded project “Cross-Border Loyalty Programme for Culture and Tourism” under the European Neighbourhood Instrument.

The post The open-storage chamber for contemporary ceramics appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Center of Technics and Industrial design «Engineering arsenal» is the largest exhibition of motorized vehicles in Latgale region. It is a unique exhibition space of retro technology and applied design, which is located in the historic 19th-century building of the Daugavpils Fortress.

Four exhibition zones with a total area of 2500 sq.m. await its visitors: «Industrial design and Special vehicles», «Soviet vehicles», «Moto vehicles» and «Western retro car» sectors. In total, the center houses more than 40 retro cars, more than 80 motorcycles and mopeds, a large number of accessories, car and moto-models. A special role is dedicated to industrial heritage of Daugavpils city. Together it all forms a story about the development of technology and design in the region, Latvia and the world in total.

Center offers:

• Acquaintance with retro technique and design objects – permanent and temporary exhibitions;
• Guided tours (in Latvian, Russian and English);
• Observing courtyard of the «Engineering Arsenal»;
• Area for master classes and thematic events;
• The center can be visited as part of the “Latvijas skolas soma” programme.

Impressive two-storey building of the Engineer arsenal was built by architect Alexander Shtaubert in 1840-1845. Building is an architectural monument of state significance. Engineering arsenal was used to produce and repair armament supplies, tooling for fortification and combat engineer measures. 

Opening hours

I – closed
II – closed
III – 10:00-19:00
IV– 10:00-19:00
V – 10:00-19:00
VI – 10:00-19:00
VII – 10:00-19:00

Prices:
One person – 10 EUR
Group of 10+ per person – 8 EUR
Guide service – 16 EUR
Creative workshop per person – 3 EUR

50% off for schoolkids, students, seniors
For free for children under 7 y.o., I and II disability status, tour group leaders.

Contact for media and bloggers – aleksandrs.cvetkovs@daugavpils.lv
(+371) 26715700

The post Centre of Technics and Industrial Design “Engineering Arsenal” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The First World War has left long-lasting scars not only in people’s destinies and hearts, but also in a large territory of present-day Latvia and Lithuania, where the so-called fronts were located for several years, including the “Life and Death” line. A complex system of fortifications with ditches, trenches and bunkers was built on both sides of the front line. Thousands of soldiers fought and died in fierce battles here, which is evidenced by the countless burials of fallen soldiers. Many concrete bunkers, impressive cannon and ammunition storages, and endless twists and turns of trenches built by German soldiers have survived to this day in the forests of Demene, Svente and Medumi Parishes of Daugavpils District.

Exhibition which is 113 sq.m. large consists of two thematic blocks. The first part is devoted to the events of the First World War in Europe and Latvia. The visitors can get familiar with the life of soldiers, with the innovations that arose during the First World War, as well as study what weapons were used by the German and Russian Armies. On the other hand, the visitors of the second thematic block have the opportunity to assume the role of a soldier and experience first-hand the everyday life at the bunker. An imitation of a Russian bunker has been created in the hall – a fragment of a trench with a small dugout, war attributes and soldier mannequins. A bunker of the Russian Army has been made because they were built of wood and have not been preserved to this day, while the concrete bunkers of the German Army can be seen in life by visiting the international route through the bunkers of the First World War. Much attention is paid to audio and video equipment in the hall with an imitation of a bunker as it gives visitors the opportunity to feel the atmosphere of the battlefield. Modern design makes the exhibition interesting and easy to understand for different audiences. However, more attention is paid to school-aged children, for whom visiting the exhibition is like a repetition of what they learn in history lessons.

The project is being implemented within the framework of INTERREG V-A Latvia-Lithuania Cross-Border Cooperation Program project LLI-501 “World War I heritage tourism route and expositions for attracting visitors to border area”

The post First World War Museum appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The family of Stikani is engaged in collecting historical artifacts. A collection of World War I and World War II artefacts has been created.

The post The private collection of First World War heritage and local history appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

In the information center of the Dviete floodplain “Gulbji” the exposition of the symbol of Bebrene and an inhabitant of the Dviete floodplain has been created. It introduces the Eurasian beaver, its history and lifestyle, habits, bad and good deeds. Variants of how to live with a beaver and use it effectively are suggested.

The exposition offers:

• learn many facts about the life of beavers;
• see and touch beaver fur, teeth and gnawed trees;
• watch a film about the life of beavers;
• learn about the healing properties of beaver glands;
• taste an infusion of beaver glands;
• go on an expedition of places, where beavers live and, if you are lucky, see a beaver with your own eyes;
• buy souvenirs with a symbol of beaver;
• taste meat products from beaver (by ordering in advance).

The post Exposition of a beaver appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The Children and Youth Center of Ilūkste houses an ancient artifact collection called the “Sēlian Room,” which has been developed over many years, gathering and preserving the cultural and historical heritage of Sēlija and Ilūkste. The collection features displays of cameras, clocks, money, postcards, linen towels, and radios.

Here, you can explore traditional Sēlian patterns in gloves and socks, century-old national skirts, as well as modern knitting from the handicraft club “Dzīparu namiņš.” You can also view interesting and rare household items.

By delving into the historical materials of the Ilūkste district (19 parishes and 3 towns), you can learn about the history of Ilūkste, whose origins date back to 1562, and explore the unique sacred heritage of Ilūkste, including the history of its churches and monasteries.

Tour Sēlija and stop by Ilūkste!

The post Antique storage “Sēļu istaba” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Daugavpils Fortress Visitors Centre presents historical exposition – “Nicholas Gates – a door to the past”, which is located in Nicholas Gates in Daugavpils Fortress.

Historically four gates were built in Daugavpils Fortress but only Nicholas Gates different from the others with their unique external appearance and the presence of side rooms. In the past, these side rooms were used as a guardhouses and short-term prison rooms.  But nowadays they have also found application. A souvenir shop and a Bat Centre have been located at the gates for several years. The other empty rooms of the gates were turned into a small historical exhibition where large number of artifacts can be seen. History enthusiasts will be able to find many interesting things there. The exhibition includes fortress plans, Soviet army uniforms, a collection of historic bricks and trim, historic windows and doors of civilian buildings and fortifications, and more.

Working hours:
Information about the exhibition’s opening hours can be requested at the Daugavpils Fortress Visitors Centre.

The entrance fee:
2 EUR for adults; 1 EUR for pupils, students, seniors and persons with special needs.

The post “Nicholas Gates – a door to the past” – new historical exposition in Daugavpils Fortress appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The Dviete Manor Complex was built in the 19th century and belonged to the Plater-Zyberg family. In spite of the fact that Dviete was heavily affected by the world wars and many buildings were destroyed, several complex buildings have survived to this day, which allows to feel the ancient spirit of the manor.

The post Dviete Manor Complex appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

In the summer of 2008, in the nature park „Dvietes paliene” on the Birds’ Island (Putnu Sala) in Bebrene parish was created the Dviete Valley Information centre “Gulbji”. The centre provides information about natural riches, cultural and historical values of the Dviete Valley, as well as about the management of biologically valuable grasslands and the nature park.

The post Dviete Valley Information Centre “Gulbji” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Just next to the Bebrene Manor and its wall, there is a mill building with a miller’s residential house. The mill is arranged in the former storage barn built in 1836. The barn was rebuilt to be the mill in 1928, and the mill was opened by Indriķis Stukulis.

The post Bebrene mil appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The creators of the Museum of the World War I “Pie Komendanta” offer sightseeing tours in Daugavpils Fortress on an electric bus. During the trip, guests and residents of the city will be introduced to the most interesting and significant objects of Daugavpils Fortress and their history. The route leads through the streets of Daugavpils Fortress and includes such objects as officers’ houses, soldiers’ barracks, military hospital building, fortress garden, powder magazines, memorial sites, casemates, fortress gates, fortifications, and much more. During the trip some recently restored objects in the fortress can be seen, such as Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre, Nicholas Gates, water lifting house, Commandant’s House etc. places. There are stops during the tour and you can go for a walk to see the fortifications of the fortress.

In total, 7 passengers can go on the tour at the same time and the duration of the trip is about 40-50 minutes. It is possible to see the places that are not usually visited by tourists. It is a very comfortable and compact car that is suitable for elderly people and people with special needs who find it difficult to get around the entire fortress on foot. It is also well suited for those travellers who have little free time, but who want to see as many places in the fortress as possible.

Additional information:

• The minimum number of people who can go on a tour is 4.
• A maximum number of people – 7 passengers.
• Tours are available in Latvian and Russian languages. 

Price list:

• Guided tour in Daugavpils Fortress on the electric bus – 10 EUR per person (40-50 min.).
• A visit to the Museum of the World War I “Pie Komendanta” and guided tour in Daugavpils Fortress on the electric bus – 15 EUR per person (2 hours).

Payment can be made in cash or by bank transfer by prior arrangement.

 Working hours:
Monday – Friday
By prior arrangement by phone: +371 29244651.

Saturday – Sunday
10 am to 6 pm, the beginning of the tour in the square near Daugavpils Fortress Culture and Information Centre, 5 Nikolaja Street.

The post Sightseeing tour in Daugavpils Fortress on electric bus appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The childhood of the outstanding Latvian poet, translator, master of drama, public and political figure Rainis (1865 – 1929) was spent here, in the Berkenele Half-manor. Here the poet’s personality and worldview began to form and the first verses were born. Those memories reflect in Rainis anthology of poetry “Five Sketch-books of Dagda”. Expositions devoted to the poet and different art exhibitions take place in the manor now. It is possible to order excursions, participate in workshops and organize seminars.

The ancient craft workshop “Klēts” has been established in the House of Rainis in Berkenele. On the first floor of the building there is an exposition of various ancient crafts and a multifunctional room for organizing various events. The attic is divided into two parts – one of them is an exhibition hall, but in the smallest part of the attic there is a heated room – a workshop, where in summer and winter craftsmen can work, but visitors can learn various skills of ancient crafts.

Visitors are welcome to visit the ancient craft workshop “Klēts”, by prior arrangement by calling 29272200.

The post ANCIENT CRAFT WORKSHOP “KLĒTS” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

“RetroGaraž‑D” is a private collection of retro cars and Soviet‑era items, offering visitors an opportunity to explore historic vehicles and the stories behind them. The exhibition features 22 “Moskvich” cars, as well as a “Volga”, two “Zhiguli” models, and one “Mercedes”. The collection is considered one of the largest assemblies of “Moskvich” automobiles in the Baltic States.

A notable highlight is a car manufactured in 1947 — one of the oldest exhibits in the collection. Produced in the post‑war period, its design is closely related to “Opel” models, reflecting the technical trends and historical context of that era.

Opening hours:
Monday-Friday: by previous appointment;
Saturday-Sunday: 10am – 6pm.

The post Exhibition of Retro Cars “RetroGaraž-D” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Medical exhibition with an exposition of birth control items is a permanent exposition devoted to the history of medicine that is located in Daugavpils Fortress.

Four large halls display objects, photographs and documents that tell the story of how people were treated in the last century and before. One hall is dedicated to medicine and medical care, the other allows visitors to get acquainted with the history of medical institutions that were opened in Daugavpils several years ago and are still working. The third hall is completely dedicated to contraception and various contraceptives can be seen here. In 2023, a new part of the exhibition was created about Covid 19 and the history of the use of protective masks.

The purpose of the exhibition is to show visitors what medicine used to be, how equipment, tools, etc. have changed. The special attention is paid to contraception in order to attract the attention of young people. They can look not only at the full range of modern contraceptives but also ask questions, talk with volunteer guides with medical education.

The exhibition was created by the Health Promotion and Education Society, the exhibition is based on a private collection that has been collected for over 30 years.

The narration is available in Latvian, Russian, Lithuanian and English. Audio guides are available.

Entrance for children under 16 years old – only accompanied by adults.

Entrance ticket – 4 EUR.
Pupils, students – 3 EUR.

Opening hours in summer:
Every day: 11 am – 5 pm
Groups have the opportunity to book visits at other times and days.

The post Medical exhibition with an exposition of birth control items appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Antique shop “Housevintage” invites to take a look at or to buy historical furniture, dishes, clocks a.o. interior objects from the late 19^th and early 20^th century. It is possible to visit a collection of stylised historical costumes of the early 20^th centuryю

Opening hours:
Monday: closed
Tuesday – Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
Saturday: 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday: closed

The post Antique Shop “Housevintage” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Museum of the World War I “Pie Komendanta” is the only museum of its kind in Latgale. The exposition is located in a historical building, built in 1860. A collection of original items and documents, which reflects the everyday life of World War I can be seen at the exhibition. The old photos tell the story about the period of World War I and reflect the events that took place in Daugavpils and around it.

The exposition of the old post office and exhibition of old irons can be seen in the second part of the museum.  The museum also offers tours to the battlefields of World War I (prior agreement on the time of the tour is required). During the tour, it is possible to learn about the city of Dvinsk as the scene of military operations in 1914-1918.

Exhibition of children’s toys
Visitors are invited to view an exhibition called “Children’s Room”, which presents toys from different eras. This is a great opportunity for children to compare their toys, toys of their parents and grandparents, with exhibits of the museum.

Exhibition Opening Hours
During the summer season, the exhibition is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00. Before visiting, it is recommended to call: +371 26888122.
At other times, the exhibition can be visited by prior arrangement, calling: +371 26888122.

Electric Bus Tours
During the tourist season, the museum offers guided electric bus tours (7 seats) at the Daugavpils Fortress.
Audio guides are available.
Tours must be booked in advance by calling: +371 26888122.

The post “Pie Komendanta” Museum of the World War I in Daugavpils Fortress appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

It is located in the center of Vabole near Skrinda family museum. The workers of Skrinda family museum in the flourmill present baking traditions in Latgale. The museum offers a thematic lesson “Path of the bread” for schoolkids of different ages (from 5 years). The lesson helps to understand what the bread is, how it is made and what is meaning of bread in human life.

Pricelist of Skrinda family museum.

The post Grain Flourmill appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

“Bunker” gallery is located in the basement of an apartment building in the authentic Soviet-era bunker with the heavy original metal door. There are more than 300 exhibits that belongs to different periods of history: the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, World War I and World War II, Latvia’s first independence period and Soviet time. There are various exhibits in the gallery – maps, posters, gas masks, different types of remedies, special clothing, radiation measuring instruments and other items that displays a theme of Civil Defense. Every one can explore various exhibits of so-called post-Soviet modernism: diplomas, flags of labor collectives, pennants as well as certificates, passports of the USSR citizens, bonds etc.

There are ancient maps, postcards, newspapers, banknotes and coins. There are also different communication tools – Morse apparatus, telephone sets, payphones and telegraph apparatus. Abacus, calculating machines, radio, pumps, badges, street plates, different types of clothing including student uniforms – all these every one can see in the rich collection of the gallery. The busts of Soviet leaders, brought from abroad and different places of Latvia, makes this collection very appealing. There are also very rare exemplars in the gallery – various items that were used by the staff of the State Security Committee (KGB) and even a gas mask for the horse.

There are regular meetings of collectors and various exhibitions in the “Bunker” gallery. Visiting by appointment only!

The post “Bunker” Gallery appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Daugavpils Fortress is a place where the second largest in the Baltic States hibernating bat colony inhabits. The fortress walls with high humidity, as well as a special microclimate in the fortifications create favourable conditions for dwelling.

Exposition of the Daugavpils Bat Centre which is located in the lateral room of the Niсholas Gate in Daugavpils Fortress provides an opportunity to explore the way bats live, to see thematic stamp collection, artwork depicting bats, as well as pictures and informative materials that characterise the life of these animals in the Daugavpils Fortress.

Daugavpils Bat Centre offers both day and night excursions during the summer season (May – September) because it is prohibited to disturb bats over the winter. The tours are held in order to explore the bats, to find out what they eat, how they hibernate and breed, as well as where they live. Besides, visitors might have a chance to see the bats with their own eyes during the night excursions.  Excursions are held in Latvian, Russian and English languages. To book your visit, please call on +371 26136953.

There is an opportunity to buy thematic souvenirs with the symbols of bats.

Entrance fee: donations.

The post Daugavpils Bat Centre appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Creative Crafts House is a creative space for both ceramic enthusiasts and industry professionals. Every week, this space becomes a hub for creativity, where children and adults learn clay modelling and wheel throwing, led by master craftswoman and artist Lilija Zeiļa.

The Creative Crafts House also offers the opportunity to take part in workshops, masterclasses, and other creative or educational activities organised by the ceramic artists of the “Latgale” Studio (by prior arrangement). In addition, the large hall is available for rent for various cultural, creative, and professional events.

The post Creative Crafts House appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The museum exposition includes historical documents and photos of Daugavpils water-supply system (from “Community of Dinaburg water supply system” till enterprise “Daugavpils water”) and historical exhibits: the memorial plaque that was placed at the museum foundation in 1889, an old water meter, as well as ancient and modern water supply and drainage devices, a variety of cards, catalogs and books on water issues. Preliminary request!

The post Daugavpils Water-supply Museum appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The exhibition takes place in the lobby on the 2nd floor of Daugavpils University (DU) building, Vienibas iela 13. The album itself is a property of Vatican Library, it was presented to the Pope Leo XIII in 1888 by the inhabitants of the Baltic region as a gift on the 50th anniversary of the Pope’s ordination.

The album “Terra Mariana” narrates about the spreading of Christianity in Livonia (nowadays territory of Latvia and Estonia), which also was called the Land of Maria (Terra Mariana), or the Land of Mara. The album contains a plenty of visual and textual information about the Livonian castles, ruins, churches, seals and coats of arms of Livonian nobility, historical figures, as well as the imprints of golden and silver coins. The illustrations are explained by the texts in Latin language, written in Old Gothic church style. The author of the album is Latgalian historian Gustav von Manteuffel. The album is a very important source of knowledge about the Latgalian cultural and historical heritage.

This unique issue is placed into a showcase, but you can use an interactive stand right next to it and leaf through the electronic version of the album.

The post The exhibition of “Terra Mariana” album’s facsimile appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The tradition of shmakovka production has been alive in Latgale for many centuries.

It is the largest and most contemporary Latgalian Culinary Heritage Centre in Latvia, which offers an attractive story about Latgale’s strong drink that has already become a brand in Latgale.

It is possible to gain knowledge of the process of making shmakovka with the help of the latest technologies, as well as to look at authentic and impressive production equipment in the three halls of the exposition (with a total area of 290 m2).

Along with the story about making a drink, it is possible to look at old photos and documents in digital exposition, as well as to become aware of the most important stages in Latgale’s history. The exposition also plays an educational role because it informs about the consequences of alcohol consumption. Here you can see a set of modern equipment related to the food industry which is used in the preparation of high-quality shmakovka.

Residents of local and more distant neighbourhoods took part in the creation of the exposition and donated various things related to shmakovka, for example, dishes, tubes, “hoses”, various measuring instruments, glasses and many other, perhaps even initially incomprehensible objects.

The centre has more than 200 different exhibits, the oldest one dates back to 1890.

The Latgalian Culinary Heritage Centre offers:

• To explore the process of making shmakovka in an interactive way with the help of the latest technologies. Information is available in six languages.
• To look at authentic and impressive production equipment.
• Guided tours in Latgalian, Latvian, Russian and English.
• Audio guides in six languages.
• Original souvenirs.
• Shmakovka tastings (provided by licensed shmakovka producer – local farm “Sēlija”).

Shmakovka exposition is located in Daugavpils city centre, in the Unity House (entrance from the Unity Square side).

Opening hours*:
April – October
I-VII: 11.00 – 19.00.
November – March
I: closed;
II-VII: 11.00 – 19.00.
*Working hours before and during public holidays can change.

Entry costs:

The post Latgalian Culinary Heritage Centre “Šmakovka” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The post Daugavpils Innovation Centre appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Museum “Jews in Daugavpils and Latgale” is located on the 2nd floor of the Daugavpils synagogue. The museum exposition tells about Jewish life and living traditions in Latgale and Daugavpils since 1900. The exposition represents the change in the number of Jews, sibling’s stories in photos, household and religious items as well as a variety of publications: magazines, calendars and books about Jews life in Daugavpils and Latgale.

Ethnographer Joseph Rochko provides every guest of Daugavpils city and interested people with the opportunity to get acquainted with the synagogue and exposition, to learn interesting and amazing stories about local Jewish families, historical aspects of Jewish life, worship traditions, the role of the altar of the synagogue etc. The visitors of the exposition and the synagogue can donate something to the synagogue, booking in advance by phone or e-mail.

The post Museum “Jews in Daugavpils and Latgale” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The post Rothko Museum appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The cultural space features several thematic exhibitions: “Old Believers in Latvia”, “Orthodoxy in Latgale”, “Paintings by Pyotr Khudobchenok”, “Gzhel Room”, “Khokhloma Room”, “Cultural and Historical Exhibition”, “Historical Exhibition”, and the “Fairy‑tale Room”. The author of the exhibition “Paintings by Pyotr Khudobchenok” is the artist and sculptor Pyotr Khudobchenok, whose works have been presented to Pope John Paul II, Margaret Thatcher, Mikhail Gorbachev and George Bush.

Cultural Space offers guided tours, as well as the children’s quest “Fairy‑tale Room” (for children aged 7–12). To book a tour, please call: +371 26232264; +371 20010284.

Gzhel front room
The exhibition familiarizes with one of the oldest Russian folk art, which became a unique artistic phenomenon, Gzhel ceramics. Gzhel is an ancient pottery district of Moscow region.
The date, when the manufacture of ceramics began there, is unknown. But one of the thirty villages, that gave the name to the whole district, was first mentioned in 1328 in the testament of the Moscow Prince Ivan Kalita.

The post National Culture Centre “Jaunbūves kultūrtelpa” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Price list for a tour in Daugavpils Fortress – 1h

ADULTS:
For a group of up to 10 people: 36.00 EUR
For a group of over  10 people: 3.60 EUR*

PUPILS, STUDENTS, PENSIONERS, PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, LARGE FAMILIES:
For a group of up to 10 people: 18.00 EUR
For a group of over  10 people: 1.80 EUR*

*From a person

Opening hours*:
Monday – Sunday: 10.00 – 18.00
* Working hours before and during public holidays can change.

The post Daugavpils Fortress Visitors Centre (Water Tower) appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The only ammunition factory in the Baltic States that is available for tourists. Here is the oldest shot tower in Europe that still works. Exposition of factory’s history, lead shot production and hunting ammunition, exploration of the historical devices and tools and after the excursion, everyone can try the factory’s pneumatic ammunition in the factory’s shooting range. Note: Excursions are not held in the historical workplaces during the time of lead shot production.

ATTENTION!!! The visitor agrees to comply with DSR safety rules and recognises the potential risk to health! Children till 18 years can visit the factory only accompanied by an adult!

Daugavpils Lead Shot Factory is 3rd prize winner in the competition of ECTN (European Cultural Tourism Network) – “Destination of Sustainable Cultural Tourism 2015” (the theme for 2015 was “Industrial Heritage Tourism”) and also has TripAdvisor’s “Certificate of Excellence 2017”.

The offer:
The excursion in the historical Daugavpils Lead Shot Factory 
The excursion includes:
– The factory exhibition hall
– A film about the producing process
– Visiting the historical department and the machines.
– Climbing on the tower (persons under 18 years can climb only in the presence of parents/guardians)

Shooting range (opportunity to try factory-produced air gun pellets):
– 10 shots – 3 EUR
– 100 shots – 12 EUR

Information about prices here.

Schedule of the tours:
A schedule of the tours is available here.
Free/busy time slots here.

The post Daugavpils Lead Shot Factory appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The post House of Traditions appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

There is a private collection of antiques in a log barn of “Egles” farm. Here you can see a variety of ancient farm tools: the centuries-old exhibits and horse harness, and the first mechanized equipment. The hospitable host Valentins Kuklis and his enthusiastic narration will help to feel the old-time atmosphere.

Open to visitors on preliminary request.

The post Private Collection of Antiques of “Egles” Farm appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Private collection is located near the Sventes Muiza**** hotel (Svente Manor). The exposition consists of World War II tanks (heavyweight tank IS-2 – “Joseph Stalin”, medium-weight tank T-34), combat vehicles (the landing craft BRDM -2, BRDM -1), military transport vehicles (“Villis” – Jeep Willys, GAZ – 67). The Soviet Army military equipment has been restored, and some of the exhibits can be geared.

Opening hours:

Monday – Thursday: Closed

Friday – Sunday: 12.00 – 17.00

Entry fees:
3.50 € – adult

For children from 7 years – 14 years 2.00 €

For children until 7 year:  free.

The post The Museum of Military Vehicles appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The museum is dedicated to the first awakening movement “Atmoda” figures – Skrinda brothers – Benedikts (1869–1947), Kazimirs (1875–1919) and Antons (1881–1918).

The museum offers to see different exhibitions and welcomes students and adults to participate in many thematic programmes. It is possible to get acquainted with old crafts and spend time together with craftsmen. The biggest number of Augsdaugava District crucifixes is preserved in Vabole Parish. Information about the “Crucifix Way” excursion route is available in the museum. For the museum programmes pre-order is needed.

The permanent exhibition tells about the life and work of the Skrinda family. You can see exhibitions about the history and the present time of Liksna and Vabole Parish, as well as century old furniture and different objects.

Opening hours:
October – May
Monday – Friday 8.00 – 17.00
Saturday, Sunday – closed

June – September
Tuesday – Saturday 9.00 – 18.00
Monday, Sunday – closed

With preliminary reservation – also on weekends and off-hours.

Entry fees:
2.00 € – adults
1.00 € – children, students, seniors, disabled people
3.00 € – family ticket (2 adults and 2 children up to 18 years old)

Guide services:
4.50 € – for a group up to 10 persons
7.00 € – for a group from 11 up to 35 persons

Art workshops:
1.50 € – adults
1.00 € – children, students, seniors, disabled people

The post The Skrinda family museum appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Slutiski old believers’ village is situated in Slutiski, Naujene parish, on the right bank of the Daugava river. In Naujene Local History Museum holdings for the fшrst time Slutiski as a village was mentioned in 1785.
Rectangle log house buildings covered with gabled of for-sided roof are on the basis of all buildings. Decoration of houses is similar to our neighbours, wood carving masters – the Slavs. Slavonic architectural traditions basically are expressed in magnificent decorations of facades, window frames and doors.
In 1986 archaeological excavations were carried out on village’s territory. Burials (15th- 17th century) were discovered there. From 1998 the village is considered as an ethnographical monument.

In Slutišķi village it is possible to see outdoor exposition “Rural Court of Slutiški”– unique example of spiritual and household culture. Exposition consists from two parts: “Old Believers’ House” and “Horse harnesses and tools in Daugavpils region”.

Opening hours:
May – September
Wednesday – Sunday 10:00-19:00
Monday, Tuesday – closed

Entry fees: 
*Entrance ticket to the outdoor exposition “Rural Court of Slutiški”:
1.50 € – adults
1.00 € – children, students, seniors
4.00 € – family ticket (maximum 2 adults and maximum 5 children up to 18 years old)
*Joint ticket to the outdoor exposition “Rural Court of Slutiški” and Naujene Local History Museum
2.50 € – adults
1.50 € – children, students, seniors

Excursions: 
Thematic excursions in “Daugavas loki” nature park  (guide services for a group):
*  Markova cognitive path  – 4.50 € (for a group up 10 persons); 7.00 € (for a group from 11 up to 35 persons)
* “Slutiški” old believers’ village – 4.50 € (for a group up 10 persons); 7.00 € (for a group from 11 up to 35 persons)
To order an excursion please contact Naujene Local History Museum – tel. +371 26532508 or +371 29468988

The post Slutiski Village and Old Believers’ Rural Courtyard appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Naujene Local History Museum for visitors offers an opportunity to explore the history, ethnography and nature of Daugavpils District, get to know local outstanding artists, participate in art workshops, be involved into the Guiness World Record setting by participating in Augsdaugava Big Quilt creation, as well as participate in events organized by the museum.

Museum offers:
* “SirdsDaugava” – an exposition about Daugavas Loki Nature Park (Daugava Bends) and the underwater world of the Daugava River;
* Interactive exposition about Augsdaugava Protected Landscape Area;
* Valentina Zeile art gallery, expositions: “Latgalian parisian Valentina Zeile”, “The heritage of the family”, “Talk” (“Dedication to the life of Christ”), “Flight” (from 13.05.2017);
* Ethnographic expositions – “The Room of Prosperous Peasant” – exposition devoted to 19th-20th c. peasant’s lifestyle and exposition “Skovorda, ližeika, kačerāgs i citi štrumenti” – exposition devoted to cooking tools, from 19.04.2017);
* Expositions devoted to the cultural heritage of Daugavpils District: “Polish cultural heritage in Daugavpils District”, “The door into the past: the charm of the Soviet times”, “The story of Ivanovi family”, “Old-Believers’ family stories” (from 28.05.2017)

Opening hours:
October – April
Monday – Friday 8.00 – 17.00
Saturday, Sunday – closed

May – September
Monday – closed
Tuesday – Friday 8.00 – 17.00
Saturday 9.00 – 17.30
Sunday – closed

Excursion offers (previous reservation required):
* “The Pearls of Daugavpils District” – excursion around the Naujene Local History Museum;
* “The Secrets of Augsdaugava” – the aim of this excursion is to give and insight to the Augšdaugava Landscape Protected Area and Daugavas Loki Nature Park, objects included in the route: Naujene Local History Museum, Vecpils Hillfort, Dinaburg Castle Model and a nature path, Vasargeliski Sightseeing Tower, Markova Cognitive Path, Slutiski Old Believer’s Village and exposition “Slutiski Old Believers’ Rural Court”;
* “Polish Cultural Heritage in Daugavpils District” – this excursion gives an insight to the Polish cultural heritage in Naujene Parish, objects included in the route: Juzefova Roman Catholic Church and Juzefova Manor Park;
* “Slutiski Novels” – this excursion is an attempt to introduce the biggest values of Slutiski Village: the well-saved housing and Old Believers cultural heritage;
* “The Stone Dinaburg Livonian Order’s Castle” – this excursion introduces Vecpils Hillfort – the place where Dinaburg (Daugavpils) was founded; it is possible to walk by the nature path to the ruins and the model of the Dinaburg Castle, after the excursion – have a rest on the “Knights’ Glide” (“Bruņinieku laukums”) – equipped outdoor rest place;
* “A Visit to Hospitable Latgalian People: Wort Workshop” – a possibility to get acquianted with an ancient craft – wort making. Wort is a very healthy, non-alcoholic drink. Two variants are possible: 50 min long excursion and a Full-day Workshop.
– 50 min long excursion
Visitors have an opportunity to get acquainted with preparation process of the wort drink: to get to know the ancient equipment, participate in straw filter making, mashing and hop boiling process. Everyone is welcome to hear traditions and customs that were followed during the wort making and while brewing the beer later;
– Full-day Workshop
Visitors have an opportunity to explore the ancient wort making process from the ground up, have a hand in every stage of its creation and also get to know how does wort convert into beer.

Workshops (previous reservation required):
* Clay workshop – a possibility to make your first work of art;
* Glass painting workshop – a possibility to make a beautiful work of art from a simple glass, vase etc.;
* Herbal tea workshop – getting to know herb variety, ignite a samovar, taste some herbal tea, which was picked in Daugavas Loki Nature Park.

IT IS INTERESTING:

* The museum is setting a Guinness World Record by creating Augsdaugava Big Quilt. The aim is to create the biggest quilt in Latvia by involving as many people as possible. It is planned to stretch the quilt above the Daugava River from one river bank to another. To join this action you need to chochet, knit or weave one square of 10×10 cm or 20×20 cm. At this moment 5000 people are involved in the action and 300 m are knitted.

Entrance: 
1.50 € – adults
1.00 € – students and seniors
4.00 € – family ticket (max 2 adults and children under 18 years)

Participation in art workshops:
2.00 € – adults
1.00 € – students and seniors

Guide services:
4.50 € – for a group up to 10 persons
7.00 € – for a group from 11 to 35 persons
7.00 € – thematic excursion out of the museum, for 1 object/route

Address: 1 Skolas Street, Naujene, Naujene parish, Augšdaugava district (Skolas iela 1, Naujene, Naujenes pagasts, Augšdaugavas novads)

The post Naujene Local History Museum and Nature Information Centre appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The childhood of the outstanding Latvian poet, translator, master of drama, public and political figure Rainis (1865 – 1929) has spent here, in the Berkenele Half-manor. Here the poet’s personality and worldview began to form and the first verses were born. Memories from here reflect in Rainis anthology of poetry “Five Sketch-books of Dagda”. Expositions devoted to the poet and different art exhibitions take a place in the manor now. It is possible to order excursions, participate in workshops and organize seminars, too.

 Museum offers:

• Rainis and Berkenele Exposition;
• Children’s Room Exposition;
• Art exhibitions.

 Opening hours:

May 15th – October 15^th Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 18:00 p.m.

October 16th – May 14^th – available upon request.

 Excursion offer (available upon request):

• “Trip around the Land of the Sun” – excursion around the house and garden; a story about Rainis childhood, watching films based on Rainis poetry motives; (for children and students).
• “The Road of the Sun” – excursion around the house and garden; a guide in a game way explains how did Rainis childhood events implemented his further life; (for children and students).
• “The Only View” – excursion around the house and garden; participants get acquainted with Rainis “Five Sketch-books of Dagda” anthology of poetry and visit mentioned in the poetry places; (for students and adults).
• “The Sun and a Boy” – excursion around the house and garden; the excursion is mostly held in Children’s Room Exposition, participants get to know what Rainis was dreaming of, which books he was reading and why the “sun” was his favourite poetic image; (for children and students).
• “Sacral Heritage” –excursion to Birkineli Evangelical Lutheran Church and cemetery; (for students and adults).
• Excursion route “Apple Taste Way”. The route includes: a visit of the orchard “Sēlija“, where its owner Alberts Mendriķis introduces with the farm, tell a “life story” of an apple tree, shows the apple orchard, warehouses and refineries. You are welcome to taste apple wine (apple juice for children); a visit of the Rainis House in Berkenele, getting to know the house and the garden of poet’s childhood; a rich choice of apple treats of the traditional Latgalian cuisine.

Workshops (available upon request):

• Wooden toy painting;
• Wool processing;
• Soap making;
• Weaving;
• Poker-work technique;
• Letter writing;
• Postcard making.

Entry costs:

1.00 EUR – for adults;

0.50 EUR – for pupil (18-year old, students) and pensioners;

4.00 EUR – family ticket (2 adults, 5 school-age children).

 Participation in workshops:

1.50 EUR – for adults;

1.00 EUR – for pupil.

Guided tour:

4.00 EUR – group less than 10 people;

7.00 EUR – group 11 – 35 people.

About the accommodation in the House of Rainis in Berkenele, you can find information here.

The post The House of Rainis in Berkenele appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.