Laba atpūtas vieta ģimenei, kolektīvam komandējumā vai nelielai kompānijai (7 gultas vietas). Pilnīgi nokomplektēta virtuve. Liela autostāvvieta. Atjaunota pēc remonta un gaida ciemos!

The post Brīvdienu māja “Glenda” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The association offers introductory horseback riding lessons and rides in the “Putnu Sala” area of the Dviete floodplain.

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The inhabitants of Dviete are proud of their well-kept, special aura-endowed and ancient park, which is a popular natural and public object. Dviete park was created in the 19th century as a landscape park with a masonry bridge. The total area of ​​the park is 7.41 ha, including 1.0 ha of water. The park has ponds connected by 3 small canals. On the edge of the park are 19th century manor buildings, 3 sculptures by sculptor I. Dobicins, dedicated to plowmen, and a burial place for German soldiers. The Dviete Park is a specially protected natural object of local importance. You can see several alleys and various species of trees and shrubs, as well as veteran trees. It also has a rock garden, flower and ornamental shrub beds, the “Bridge of Love”, paths, homemade benches, tables, swings, and a campfire site. Fans of a healthy lifestyle have the opportunity to play sports, as the park has 2 sports fields – football and basketball. The park territory is improved and supplemented with new wooden elements every year, and the planting fund is renewed. In 2012, as part of a project implemented by the association “Dvietiņa”, the open-air stage of the Dviete Park was built from a wooden log house and there were made spectator benches; in 2015, a publicly accessible gazebo and toilet were built from a wooden log house; in 2018, the football field was rebuilt, new football goals were installed, and a children’s playground set was installed – a children’s town.

In 2021, with the support of the association “Dvietes vīnogas”, there was created a parking.

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“Divas Vīnogas” is mobile catering, where dishes are prepared for anniversaries, christening, weddings, funeral, conferences. Tables are set both indoors and outdoors.

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The Selonia White Highways will guide you to Bebrene, where you can immerse yourself in its cultural and historical heritage, admire the natural beauty, and enjoy active relaxation on horseback or a carriage ride during the winter months.

The post Association “Jātnieku sporta klubs “Gaita”” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

At the serum distillery “Dzīvie” you will get to know the history of the ancient house, the special and atypical architecture, as well as learn how the unique serum cream is made. By contacting us in advance, you can apply for a serum cream master class and purchase the products of the serum distillery.

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Guest house “WoodStay” is located among growing pines and birches, just 10-15 minutes away from the Daugavpils city center.

In “WoodStay” it is offered to enjoy symphony of birds’ songs and take a rest in nature together with loved ones.

In the guest house there is 1 bathroom and 2 bedrooms with large double beds. In each room there is also a pull out sofa. The living room is quite big with a big pull out sofa. The kitchen is equipped with everything that is necessary for living: electric kettle, refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher and washing machine.

You can also enjoy your stay on the big terrace, sitting near a table or relaxing in a warm tub.

There is also a sports field on the territory.

About reservations contact us or write on WhatsApp +371 27070971.

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An ideal place to enjoy a real sauna ritual. Massage pool is available for companies up to 6 people.
Professional bathhouse and SPA specialist can perform the sauna ritual.

Tent sites.

Gift cards are available.

The post Sauna “Atgūsti spēku pirtī” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

CANTINA is a wine shop in Silene Resort&SPA  where the assortment of Italian wines is constantly growing. The choice of wines can surprise all the wine lovers with sparkling Prosecco wines, excellent red and white wines from the best wineries in Italy.

The special price offers on wines are always customer-oriented and pleasant, moreover, if you would like to purchase some exclusive goods or souvenirs from Italy, you should visit CANTINA for sure!

We take the advance reservations for wine tastings, where you get the chance to taste 5 (five) different wines, appetizers and the sommelier narration about each wine.

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At “Jūras ērglis” guest house, immerse yourself in the serene pine forest park bordering the scenic Riču Lake shoreline.  Forest-side restaurant sets the perfect ambiance for commemorating special moments like anniversaries, weddings, or any cherished celebration.

Facilitating your comfort and enjoyment, we offer a sauna, cozy fireplace, charming gazebo, and the option to rent motorboat and rowboat. Alongside, guests can utilize our tent sites, designated barbecue area, and enjoy fishing activities by the lake.

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Cozy holiday house for a quiet and peaceful vacation and recreation. There are three separate bedrooms and a living room, as well as an equipped kitchen. Sleeps eight, with extra mattresses available. Sauna available. There is a pond nearby, beautiful nature.

The post Holiday House “Villa Vesta” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

WE OFFER THE COMPLEX “VISKI STAGE AND STADIUM” FOR ORGANIZING VARIOUS EVENTS:

• training and competitions;
• training camps for sports teams;
• sports festival;
• concerts and balls on stage;
• festivals;
• Song and Dance Festival;
• corporate events for groups, etc

THE COMPLEX INCLUDES:

• an athletics stadium with 300 spectator seats, an equipped commentator’s building;
• athletics sectors with all necessary equipment (long jump, high jump, discus throw, javelin throw, shot put);
• football field, volleyball, basketball, tennis fields;
• showers and changing rooms;
• tent area, service hotel;
• stage with 1000 audience seats, well-equipped preparation rooms for artists, communications;
• Lukna lake sandy beach and boat station (rental of boats, catamarans, water bikes, SUP boards), sauna;
• parking lot.

The Viskis athletics stadium has been created in accordance with the requirements of the IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) standards, which makes it possible to organize high-level athletics competitions. The new sprayable synthetic polyurethane covering for running tracks and athletics sectors also meets IAAF certification standards.

ARRIVAL

The complex is located on the shore of Lake Lukna in Viški parish, Augšdaugava district.
Access is via an asphalted road ~2km from the A13 highway (Rēzekne – Daugavpils), 30 km from Daugavpils.

ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICES:

• tent sites next to the stadium, service hotelrecreation base “Virogna” (~5km away) offers ~150 places;
• ~60-70 places in guest houses within a 5 km radius;
• meals are offered by the canteen of the Viški Technical School, outside meals are also provided by other guesthouses in the Augšdaugava region.

OTHER  OPTIONS:

Nearby are the Viski Craftmen Village and the Kotleri Wine Village, which offer a variety of exciting excursion programs, master classes and tastings;
SIA “Beibuks” – raft and kayak rental, water routes, excursions along the Daugava River;
guided tours around the Augšdaugava region – various routes;
air shows, flights with a hang glider, an airplane, aerial tours of the Upper Daugava region accompanied by an audio guide;
boat rental and fishing in Lukna and Viški lake;
A wide range of tourism offers is available in nearby cities (Daugavpils, Aglona, ​​Preiļi, Krāslava).

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Paintball

Paintball is a sports game where participants shoot balls at each other using air guns. If a player is hit by a ball , he is considered to be hit and must leave the field until the next round. One game usually lasts about 10 minutes. The maximum shooting range is 50 metres.

As in other active sports, in paintball it is important to wear special equipment to protect against injury. Paintball can be played from the age of 12, but all safety rules must be strictly observed. “FOXWAR” playground and camouflage suits allow you to camouflage well and play tactical paintball.

Lasertag

Weapons use safe infrared light to read hits and weigh only 1 kilogram, which ensures comfortable play even for several hours.

“FOXWAR” weapons and other equipment have the most advanced technology, which allows us to accurately track hits at distances of 200 metres and more, as well as obtain detailed statistics of each player during and after the game. You can participate in LaserTag from the age of 5 and there is no need for protective equipment.

* Organise away games all over Latgale with our own obstacles, so everyone can try Lasertag!

* Organise unique night games at our range, so we have 24/7 recording!

* By appointment only!

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The guest house “Purvmaļi” is located on a shore of the Klaviski lake, 13 km away from Daugavpils, near Medumi.

Offers:

• House with 9 comfortable beds;
• House with 5 comfortable beds (with WC);
• Big territory, that is separated by a forest massif, private lakeshore;
• A boat is available, wide opportunities of fishing (the lake is rich with fish);
• Sauna, shower, waterfall bucket;
• Equipped kitchen (dishes, refrigerator, kettle, microwave, gas stove, hot water);
• Place for bonfire, grill, kazan;
• Equipped swimming places;
• Tent sites, big gazebo (up to 30 persons), lighting, electricity;
• Transfer;
• Tub is also available.

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An aromatic lavender field, a cozy glass house with various interior elements and decorations. A place to enjoy fabulous nature and take beautiful photos.

Opening hours: Every day from 10:00 to 20:00.

Entrance – donations.

The post Lavender garden 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.

A café where you can have a delicious meal from chef Eric Alekseev in a pleasant and warm atmosphere.

Both cold and hot snacks are prepared, off-site banquets are served, and it is also possible to reserve various events, including children’s parties.

The cafe operates by appointment.

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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.

The holiday home “Forest Lake” is located in Medumi parish, in Kščeva village and offers a garden and a terrace. The accommodation is 17 km from Daugavpils, and one of the main benefits for guests are free Wi-Fi and a private parking that is available on the site.

The holiday home is equipped with 1 bedroom, a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided as well.

It is possible to take a pet with you as well. Every guest can rent a hot tub and a boat.

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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).

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The origins of Ilūkste’s Lutheran Church date back to the distant 16th century, a time when Sēlija was predominantly Lutheran.

In 1568, following a decree by the Duke, a Lutheran church was built in Ilūkste, but its existence was short-lived. After the landowner of Pilskalne converted to Catholicism and the last Lutheran pastor in Ilūkste had passed away, Count Jānis Zībergs, a Catholic, transferred the church to the Catholics in 1635, a decision ratified by King Władysław IV of Poland for eternity. Following the confirmation of this donation, the Ilūkste Lutheran congregation was merged with the Lutheran church in Laši. At that time, Jesuits were active in Ilūkste, turning the church into a Mission House, which was later elevated to the status of a residence. Using funds from both nobles and peasants, the Jesuits replaced the small church with a large wooden one and later built a monastery. In 1748, the church and the adjacent wooden monastery were destroyed by fire.

By the 19th century, the number of Lutherans in Ilūkste and its surroundings had grown. Fueled by the resilience of the local people, the Lutheran congregation began to revive. Pastors from Laši held services in a prayer house in Ilūkste. In 1861, the cornerstone was laid for the current Ilūkste Evangelical Lutheran Church, and construction took four long years.

On May 16, 1865, the new church was consecrated, becoming a notable part of the town’s skyline.

The Ilūkste Lutheran Church has suffered many times throughout history. It was destroyed during World War I, but rebuilt in 1928 with funds from the congregation. By 1932, the combined Laši-Ilūkste congregation had 499 members. During the post-war period, the church was confiscated from the congregation, and its activities were halted.

The Ilūkste Lutheran congregation regained ownership of the church in the early 1990s.

The post Ilukste Lutheran church appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

A great place for a leisurely holiday with family or friends. The recreation complex is located on the shores of Lake Viski. Guests are offered 4 cozy two-storey small houses, which can totally accommodate 16 guests. One of the houses is equipped for people with special needs. The leisure complex is pet-friendly.

There is a large territory, a lake and a pond for fishing, SUP board rental, a small sauna with a hot tub, a gazebo and a barbecue.

The post Recreation complex “Ambro krasts” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

The boat “Dinaburga” started its journey along the picturesque river Daugava on April 30, 2022. It is a great opportunity to get to know the cultural and historical heritage and the most beautiful and richest part of the Daugava with your own eyes.

There are offered regular boat trips on the Daugava, in Naujene parish, Augsdaugava district. The boat accommodates guests in a comfortable salon, with drop-down transparent walls, salon heating, an audio system, blankets for colder days and an always smiling captain.

On weekdays, the boat runs on a request, by previous reservation, but on weekends, from 10:00 to 19:00 every hour. The boat can accommodate 20 passengers and a captain.

The boat “Dinaburga” is also available for organized groups of students and tourists, corporate events, various celebrations and weddings.

It is available for disabled people. There ir also an opportunity to order snacks, as well as photographer services.

The price list is available HERE.

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Modern children’s areas for recreation, where it is possible to organize celebrations for different target audiences, receive the services of an animator.

• innovative drone and radio-controlled car race track
• Space for rent
• Master classes
• Virtual reality glasses
• Rifle
• Board games
• Children’s electric cars
• AttractionsOpening hours: by prior appointment!

The post Area for recreation “Mikado Ilūkste” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

Holiday house “Damkalni” is located in a picturesque place nearby the lake Belinskoe – a place to enjoy rest and capture the feeling of the countryside. Here you can enjoy the sound of silence and the smell of peace.

Offers:

• beds for 9 people
• equipped kitchen
• bed clothes
• towels
• TV
• Wi-Fi
• washing machine
• electric kettle
• microwave oven
• kitchen dishes
• hair dryer
• refrigerator
• outdoor furniture
• mosquito nets for windows
• barbecue equipment
• fireplace
• garden
• places for swimming
• swing
• inflatable swimming things for children and a children’s corner with toys
• heated floors and a fireplace
• nearest neighbors in 400m
• dishwashing machine

It is possible to rent a sauna and a boat for trips around the lake.

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A great place to relax with family or a group of friends. There is a possibility to hold banquets, celebrations, organize seminars. The guest house can accommodate up to 15 people. A large territory, places for tents are available, there is a sauna, near a pond where you can also go fishing. The guest house is pet friendly.

The post Guest House”Dzintari” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

“Lavandas sēta” is not only a fragrant lavender field, where you can enjoy the magic of lavender in all its forms, buy souvenirs, organize photo sessions, but also there is available hot tub rental. The tub is equipped with a hydromassage function and led lighting.

A portable hot tub is a great way to relax and enjoy a warm jacuzzi in the fresh air, together with your family or friends. The stove built into the tub is heated and the water heats up in 2-3 hours.

Relaxing in the hot tub is a great way to get some rest and improve your health.

Up to 6 people can be in the tub at the same time.

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Kebab, Pizzas, Hot Dogs, WOK, nagets, drinks. Food delivery.

Open hours:

Monday – Sunday: 11 am – 10 pm.

The post Kebab “Ilūkstes” appeared first on VISITDAUGAVPILS.

In one of the most beautiful places in Latvia, on the bank of Daugava river, is located the new Glemping “Daugavas lokos”. Bell tents (glemping (brand Nordisk)) are located directly between Daugavpils and Kraslava – in the Slutiski village.

It is offered to relax in a fabulous place – in the bends of Daugava river in 24 m² large glemping tents.

German-made bell tents are equipped with:

• windows
• mosquito nets
• electricity
• design elements
• cabs
• terrace
• outdoor lighting

In a separate house there are showers and toilets, kitchen with refrigerator, stove. Coffee machine, drinking water are also available.

Catering services are also offered in the glemping. Guests have access to a barbecue, chairs and a table.

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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!

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Subate Lake Park is a favorite recreation place of inhabitants of Subate and guests during the summer season. Children will enjoy a playground, while adults can work out in the outdoor gym.

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The gates of Šlosberga (Pilskalne) Manor (1918) are the only historical remnants of the Plater-Zībergs manor. Pilskalne Park also features a monument dedicated to the countess’s dog (1892–1898).

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The Pilskalne Siguldiņa Nature Reserve (59.3 ha) is located in a picturesque valley carved by the meltwaters of glaciers. This area has been a nature reserve since 2003 when it was included in the Natura 2000 list of European protected areas. The reserve features 11 European Union priority habitats, 21 rare or protected plant species, 7 rare or protected lichen species, and a rich diversity of plants in and around the lakes. Several exciting walking and educational trails have been established in the reserve.

“Sprīdītis” Trail (1.6 km): Starting at a small water reservoir, this trail features 32 wooden sculptures of characters from A. Brigadere’s fairy tale “Sprīdītis”. The Black Hill is under national protection and is an archaeological monument. Historically, a Sēlian wooden fortress stood on this steep hill, existing for an extended period. Archaeological findings include fragments of pottery, both incised and plastered, as well as other evidence. These discoveries suggest the presence of Baltic tribes in the area. The cultural layer and a significant amount of charcoal found in the soil near the hill by the Dubupīte stream may explain the hill’s name, “Melnais kalns” (Black Hill).

“Dendrological and Geographical Route” (3.8 km): This circular trail introduces visitors to 28 dendrological, 10 geological, and cultural-historical sites. The route takes 2-3 hours to complete, showcasing impressive ancient trees, oak bridges formed by intertwined branches, and a variety of tree species.

“Historical Witnesses” Trail (0.6 km): Continuing from the dendrological route, this trail runs along a pristine section of old-growth forest and highlights remnants of German army fortifications from World War I.

“Bog” Trail (approx. 6 km, including a 600 m wooden boardwalk):This trail offers an exciting opportunity to explore bog plant life and discover insect-eating plants, such as sundews.

Trail Pricing (per person)*:

*  “Sprīdītis” Trail – 1.6 km (Children and seniors – EUR 1.00; Adults – EUR 1.50)

* “Dendrological” Trail – 3.8 km (Children and seniors – EUR 1.50; Adults – EUR 2.50)

* “Historical Witnesses Trail” – 5 km (Children and seniors – EUR 1.50; Adults – EUR 2.50)

* “Bog” Trail – 6 km (Children and seniors – EUR 1.50; Adults – EUR 2.50)

Guide Services:

* 1 hour – EUR 10.00 (for a group of visitors)

* 1 hour – Thematic tour – EUR 20.00 (for a group of visitors)

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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.

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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.

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Here it is possible to get acquainted with the natural diversity of the Augszeme highlands – geological formations, forest and meadow plants, to meet wild animals. The peculiarity of the trail is steep ups and downs, springs with clear and invigorating water.

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It is a world-scale unique flocking and nesting place for migratory birds where rare, natural and nearly unspoilt watergrasslands serve as home to a number of rare and protected species of plants and animals in Latvia and Europe. Here you can see different cattle and horses grazing in the floodplain.

In the spring, the floodplain meadows of Dviete are flooding. Local inhabitants call this phenomenon as the fifth season. It is a popular place to go boating on flooded meadows in spring.

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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.

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The ensemble of Bebrene manor is one of the few in Selonia, where all the 19th century manor houses’ building elements have been fully preserved – manor house, auxiliary buildings, park with gates and fence. Bebrene Manor Park is an outstanding art monument of gardens and parks, one of the most visually expressive landscape parks in Latvia, its area is 7.9 hectares.

If you want to visit the Bebrene Manor Complex, make a pre-order by calling on +371 20205948.

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The URTAWOOD workshop is a place where you can discover high-quality wooden products with modern designs. This small workshop, currently run by just two people, has recently started its operations but is already capable of producing impressive items. They craft a wide range of wooden products, from clocks and cutting boards to large solid wood furniture such as benches, tables, and beds. With engraving, carving, and various types of personalization, each piece is unique and often one of a kind.

The workshop owners are open to ideas, different solutions, and client collaboration to bring the most extraordinary projects to life. You can expect handmade products created with love, patience, and respect. The uniqueness lies in the master’s signature style, skill, and energy. From concept to completion, they work alongside you!

You’re invited to explore the energy and power of wood, its various forms, and even test your knowledge in an engaging, educational quiz! The workshop offers various activities, and the owners are happy to get involved in exciting projects. You’re always welcome!

Services offered:

– Wooden creations shop

– Personalized wooden item workshops

– Tree identification quiz

– Workshop tour

– For those who enjoy physical activities, they offer bike equipment, mountain or comfort bike rentals, and the opportunity to embark on cycling exploration or orientation rides around the nearby area and Ilūkste town.

Opening hours:

Every day from 08:00 to 20:00.

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Exclusive place for relaxation and excursions – glamping “BikBus” is the first unique place in Latgale with the possibility to stay overnight on the bus.

“BikBus” is located in Augšdaugava district, Biķernieki parish, nearby the Swan pond, 25 km from Daugavpils. The main idea of ​​the project is to create places in rural areas for tourists.

“BikBus” is an opportunity to spend your free time creatively and unusually and enjoy rural life.

Offers:

• overnight stay on the bus (two one and half beds and a corner sofa);

• two triple tents with inflatable mattresses.

For the convenience of guests are offered:

• towels, bed linen, dishes;
• grill – 2 pcs;
• drinking water and a thermos with hot water;
• canopy with table and chairs;
• several areas around the bus are equipped with tables and chairs;
• inflatable pool for babies;
• a biotoilet is installed in the territory;
• free place for fishing.

Unfortunately, there is no electricity in the territory, but for the convenience of guests “BikBus” provides:

• outdoor LED lamps;
• lighting inside the bus;
• fan;
• Power bank – 2 pcs.

Number of people – unlimited (you can bring your own tents or your own caravan).

It is possible to rent “BikBus” for a day without overnight stay – price 35 euro.

Useful information:

• https://www.facebook.com/BikBus
• https://ieej.lv/Ed6Ox

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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.

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Horseback riding allows you to enjoy the splendor of nature in different seasons. Treat yourself or your family to beautiful moments with special animals – horses. On horseback you can enjoy a completely different view of your surroundings and regain inner peace.

The horse riding arena in Kalkuni Parish offers family holidays, riding lessons, horse camps and equestrian events, and picnic facilities. Photo shoots and individual horse riding are also possible.

“Children’s club of equestrian sport lovers” in Daugavpils has existed for 16 years already. The club is run by Veronika Gluhova.

Services: horseback riding, basics training, photo sessions.

Price of services:
Riding in the riding arena: 10 min – 3 euros;
Horse hire for photo or video shoot: 1 hour – 50 euros;
Riding lessons: 40 – 45 min. – 35 euros.

Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm.

Horseback riding is available by appointment.

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An interesting walking route is located in the very picturesque territory of the nature park “Daugavas loki”. The Slutiski ravine trail connects Slutiski scarp and Slutiski courtyard.

The Slutiski ravine trail is more suitable for physically active people. You can walk this trail by choosing two different levels of difficulty. The most difficult route leads through ravines, so you will have to climb stairs up and down, crossing the small wooden bridges over the ravines. During the whole walk, the magic of the Daugava river is clearly visible, you can enjoy the fresh forest air, listen to birdsongs and delight your eyes with wide landscape views. Walking along the trail, it is possible to pass several biotopes, to observe the diversity of flora and fauna, because the area is rich with a very wide representation of flora.

The easiest route leads along the bank of the Daugava river, and following this route, you will have to cross fewer stairs. After following the trail, you can get to the Slutiski village and the camping “Daugavas lokos”. Or, starting the walk from the camping “Daugavas lokos”, get to the Slutiski scarp.

The ravines formed on the slope of the main bank of the right bank of the Daugava are relief forms formed by the erosion of temporarily flowing water flows. It can be assumed that their formation took place a very long time ago – at the end of the last ice age, more than 12,000 years ago, at the early stages of the development of the ancient Daugava valley, when the surrounding area and the valley had different natural conditions. At the time when the blocks of ice were melting, the streams of water flowed to the lowering – the future valley of the Daugava and washed away the ravines on their way. Nowadays water currents in ravine beds after rain or snowmelt only slightly transform these ancient forms of linear erosion. Therefore, it can be considered that erosion is almost non-existent nowadays and the ravines can be classified as a group of decayed linear erosion forms. The fact that the ravines have subsided is also shown by the forest vegetation that covers the slopes of the ravines.

We invite you to get acquainted with the Slutiski ravine trail and the surrounding natural values! And remember: “Going for a walk. What you bring, take away ”!

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Not far from the city, in a wooded area near the Gaišezers lake, there is a well-equipped recreation area with a swimming place, several gazebos, benches and tables, and a fire place.

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Place for the rest is located on the territory of the Daugavas Loki Natural Park. Beautiful landscape and slope to the Daugava, picnic, and recreation place for a larger company. There are different types of swings, a large canopy with a dining table, a separate dining table, many benches, a large area for tents. There is a toilet and a fire pit as well. There is a beautiful view of the Daugava and the stairs that lead from the picnic site closer to the river, although direct access to the water is a little further. You can also spend the night there, which is used by boaters, but this object, which is located on a hill, is much better decorated. Access to the place is through Butišķi, do not follow the “shortest” road, because the small roads marked on the map have grown into the forest. The asphalt road of Boutique is very close and is the best way to get here. From the asphalt to this object there is only about a hundred meters along the forest road.

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Jaunsvente park was built in the end of 19th century. Park’s area is 5.22 hectares and there are 27 different species of trees, the most interesting of which are the Erman’s Birch (lat. Betula ermanii) and the Hungarian lilac (lat. Syringa josikaea).

In the territory of the park there is a World War II cemetery. In the vicinity of the park there is Sventes Manor, built in 1912, and the Military Vehicle Museum.

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In the territory of Medumi village, on the shore of Medumi lake, there is a well-equipped recreation place and beach – here you can go fishing and relax by the lake. Nearby Medumi lake is located Medumi park, where you can see a great variety of plantation – ashes, oaks, lindens, elms, scarlet dogberries, Daugava hawthorns, European spindles, balsam firs, European larches, Colorado sharp spruces etc.

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Nearby Brigenes lake there are a recreation place and a swimming place. Licensed fishing is also available (organizer of licensed fishing – Demene parish Council in Augsdaugava district).

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There are recreation and campfire places near lake Baltezers, as well as two swimming places. There is a footbridge in the swimming place, the coast is cleared of vegetation.

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Relax on the shore of the lake in a well-equied place with a table, benches, shelter and a fireplace and enjoy the magic of nature. Both fishing and 3 picnic places are available.

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Several species of protected plants are encountered on the lakeshores of Rici lake that create a fabulous landscape: the black stork, the black kite and the lesser spotted eagle. There is a recreation place set up for visitors. There are also opportunities for mushroom and berry picking in the area. Lake Rici is located in the border zone. Visitors are required to take a personal identification document and a special pass.

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Recreational possibilities – licensed fishing. Licensed fishing organizer: Viski Parish Council. According to the project INTERREG IIIA “Cycling Development in the Baltic Country of Lakes”, on the beaches of the lake near the Viski technical school (GPS: 56.064032, 26.771286000000032) and in Ostrova (GPS: 56.0598558, 26.8116675) recreation places with different equipment (tables, benches, bowers, swings, toilets and garbage bins) were installed.

Offers:

• Boat rental 1,50 EUR /h, 7,00 EUR/day
• Water ski rental 2,00 EUR/h
• Catamarans rental 2.00 EUR/h
• Aquaskipper rental 2.00 EUR/30 min.

On the lake bank near Viski-Aglona road, between Lukna and Boltaru lake, near to recreation place, an observation tower (GPS: 56.0598558, 26.8116675) is built. From this tower You can see a view on Viski surrounding lakes.

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The Dinaburg Castle Trail, where the recreation place is located, is about 1 km long. In 2016, the trail was renovated with a new viewing platform, wooden stairs and small bridges. After climbing up and down (the total length of the stairs is more than 300 meters) you can take a breath and have a meal in the well-equipped recreation place on the bank of the Daugava River – on “Bruņinieku laukums”.

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Recreation place near Melnais lake.

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A recreation place with a table, benches, toilet and a fireplace.

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Recreation place near the Sasaļu lake.

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A cultural layer has been found both on the hill and on its slopes and terrace. It has been established that the thickness of the cultural layer reaches 1.8 m. Ancient hearths were cleaned and uncovered in the excavations, shredded and smooth ceramic fragments, grains, stone chisels and their parts were found. On the Sudmali mound, which is located in Svente parish, is a well-equipped recreation place and an information stand.

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Osvalds Skromans is a craftsman who is making different wicker artworks for more than 20 years. He is making weaves of different types and sizes, both from round wicker and from wicker strips. The range of products is very wide – from various baskets to chandeliers and tables. The craftsman offers to buy gifts for those who like handmade things from natural and ecologically clean materials. These products will fit well in any house or apartment and have a variety of applications.

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Excursion with a treat.
The recreation area has been created in a historical place that formerly belonged to August von Oettingen. Now there is an open-air exposition of the history of the Kalkuni manor and the Oettingen family.
We offer a guided tour and degustation, during which you will taste fresh chimney cakes and a special hot drink with spices. Chimney cakes are baked here on the place!

A well-equipped recreation area for celebrations and collective events
There are a large terrace, a celebration tent and garden furniture for your convenience. There is a fireplace and 2 WC.

Interactive programs and master classes
The recreation area offers interactive programs and master classes (on request).

A great place for photoshoots

There are a lot of beautiful locations for wedding and celebration photoshoots.

The resting area is accessible to people with movement disorders.
Pre-registration is required by calling: +371 29164268.

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In Augsdaugava region, Kalkūne parish there is a confectionery “Dvinska bakery”, where various treats are baked. A wide range of pastries, cakes, pies and other sweet snacks are available. In the bakery work experienced confectioners who use natural ingredients and a unique recipe in the preparation of confectionery.

In the confectionery you can not only buy a fresh cake with tea or coffee, but every gourmet can also order a cake or pie for a party.

Working hours: Monday – Thursday, Sunday 08.00 – 17.00, Friday – Saturday – closed

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Guest house “Kaķis krūzē” is located on the side of the Daugavpils – Riga highway, near the beautiful neo-Gothic style Blessed Jesus’ Heart Roman Catholic Church in Liksna  and Liksna Manor Park. The river Daugava and a forest are nearby. You can explore the area near the guest house by bicycle. It is located 22 km from Daugavpils city center.

Here you can relax in rustic-style rooms, where the main feature is the eco-style interior in decoration. In furniture and decor are used only natural harmless Latvian wood materials. Bathroom is with a shower, hairdryer, washing machine, iron. Breakfast is available. Pets are allowed.

It is possible to visit sauna, as well as to look at a collection of ancient things.

You can have a meal in the cafe, in cold weather nearby the fireplace, in warm weather – in fresh air in one of the beautiful gazebos.

There is also entertainment for children: a trampoline, an inflatable slide and a swing.

Services:

• Sleeping beds: 6 double rooms (one large double bed, extra baby bed or rollaway bed);
• large banquet hall (up to 50 people);
• small banquet hall (up to 20 people);
• table setting, organization of celebrations;
• landscaped area, gazebos, grill;
• music center, television, karaoke;
• free parking;
• bike rental;
• children’s attractions;
• sauna and outdoor pool;
• Wi-Fi.

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Camping “Daugavas lokos” is located directly between Daugavpils and Kraslava – in the Slutiski village. It is located in a simple, but wonderfully beautiful place, which offers a fabulous view over the bends of Daugava river.

The camping has a fairly large territory with 10 cottages, each cottage has 6 beds, bedding, lighting, wall sockets, ventilation, chairs, table, hangers. There are shared showers and toilets in a separate cottage. Drinking water is also available in the camping.

One of the prides of the camping is a sauna and a tub, from which you can see the bends of Daugava river. “Camping in Daugavas loki” also has a children’s playground and a volleyball network.

You can also spend a night in your car or tent at the camping territory.

Regardless of the type of accommodation that you choose, all guests have access to a barbecue, a fireplace, firewood, chairs and a table. This is a wonderful place to catch fish or swim. It is offered not only accommodation and sauna procedures, but it is also possible to travel around Daugava river with boats, SUP boards or wooden rafts for an additional fee.

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Cafe “Kaķis krūzē” is located on the side of Daugavpils – Riga highway. It is 22 km away from Daugavpils city center. On weekends visitors can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the owner-chef in the cozy rustic-style cafe or take a meal in one of the beautiful gazebos. There is also entertainment for children: a trampoline, an inflatable slide and swings.

Services:

• large banquet hall (up to 50 people);
• small banquet hall (up to 20 people);
• table setting, organization of celebrations;
• landscaped area, gazebos, grill;
• music center, television, karaoke;
• free parking;
• bike rental;
• children’s attractions;
• sauna and outdoor pool;
• beds;
• Wi-Fi internet.

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The park is for relax and walk, where everyone can get acquainted with different birds and animals. There are many species of exotic birds in the park, such as rare owls, ostriches, pheasants, peacocks, white-necked raven, eagle and hawk. In the zoo live also fallow deers and horses (Gypsy horses). The pony, on whose horseback you can ride a child, is waiting for your visit.

You can see also the friendly goats, who will gently taste treats from your hands. In the zoo there is also a reptile house.

There is an inflatable trampoline with a slide for children in the park. In the zoo are tables and benches, so those who want to relax from the bustle of the city, are welcome.

The zoo is located in the Demene parish (Briģene), turn onto the Jāņuciems road and after 400 meters you will come to us!

Working hours:

Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 – 18.00

Monday – free

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The recreation place “Latgales sēta” is located on the shore of Daugava River in Slutiski, Naujene parish.

This place was provided with the necessary infrastructure in order to take visitors, both local inhabitants and tourists, during the active holiday season.

This recreation place can be interesting for people of all ages, and not only adults but also children will find some activities here. Here was created also a playground for children, as well as the gates, which will only be opened in special cases, because the place is separated from a road. There was created also a walking trail.

Where it was possible, the materials of the objects were chosen from wood to be as close as it is possible to the surrounding environment, while one of the main and visible objects, the newly built stage, is made of concrete. This stage was necessary for the organization of cultural events, and if up to now the biggest cultural event of the district, the Festival “Augšdaugava”, has had problems with the placement of dancers and techniques, then these problems are now resolved.

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In Lielborne you will find an old park created on the terraces and a 2-kilometer walking trail. Illumination of the park in front of the owner’s house will lead you to the pond of the windmill and the waterfall. On historical places there were built leisure objects  with views of the ruins of the windmill, ponds, rapids of the River Borne and the Nature Park “Daugavas loki”. In the park of the manor you can see two centuries-old trees: oak and elm, as well as the eyes of visitors will also be pleased with a larch and an unusually beautiful pine. In the shade of old trees grow new decorative seedlings that harmoniously co-exist with the wild plants that grow here.

In addition to walking in the wide park, photographing or just meditating on the banks of the Daugava, you can also find active entertainment. There is a fascinating playground for children, a rope track for young people and a climbing wall. The most betting people will be able to compete in agility of walking on a slack line or on a street exercise machine. Guests of the manor are provided with bicycles, boating, winter quad biking, as well as horse riding, including equine-assisted therapy.

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JSC “Latvia’s State Forests” (LVM) in the southern region of Latgale has opened the new hiking trail “Forest trail “Egļukalns””, that is suitable for both families and experienced tourists.

The new walking route winds around Eglukalns, which is 220 m above sea levels and is the highest peak in the Augszemes highlands.

The 4 km walking trail is situated in the Svente Nature Park, which is included in the ‘Augszeme’ protected landscape area, and which delights visitors with its breathtaking landscapes – deep ravines, lakes, mossy boulders, as well as powerful oaks and ruins of World War I, which are considered a historical heritage of this area.

The trail is marked with two-color flags that are painted on trees along the entire route. Going for a walk, keep in mind that the route leads along forest paths and small trails, so it can be difficult for young travelers. Soon, the route of the hiking trail “Forest trail “Egļukalns”” will be published in the LVM GEO mobile application and website.

The Svente Nature Park was established in 1977 to preserve the unique natural landscape of the Svente Lake. It is also a great place for bird watching, because several protected bird species have chosen reed places on the lake as a breeding place: the black-headed gull, big and little bittern, as well as other common bird species.

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SAUNA RITUALS are the interplay between humans and nature in the sauna, offering the client an opportunity to enjoy the effects of various natural elements through all the senses available to them. SENSA’s modern eco sauna rituals not only relieve a person from their daily worries but also offer the chance to leisurely experience the diverse possibilities that nature provides, while feeling an unexpected surge of energy. We use only ingredients that we have gathered or prepared ourselves, ensuring the use of natural materials, which form the foundation of our sauna programs. We make our own sauna whisks, prepare scrubs, and create herbal mats that we place on the sauna benches. We pamper our clients with the best we have available: plants, honey, clay, and salt. Each plant has its own unique texture, aroma, and effect, which our sauna masters know thoroughly and apply skillfully.
Our offerings include:

• Individually tailored sauna rituals –
• Sauna rituals for couples and groups of friends –
• Birthday sauna
• More:(http://www.sensa.lv)

Workshops
SENSA offers workshops for various events – for individuals, companies, and different organizations such as associations, partnerships, and educational institutions. We typically adapt the format of the workshops to suit the client’s preferences, the event’s theme, location, and season, combining these elements in various ways.
Our workshops include:

• Preparing salt, honey, and herbal scrubs
• Making beeswax candles with herbs
• Creating natural cosmetics – such as lip balms, oil infusions, body deodorants, various ointments, and creams –
• Tying sauna whisks
• Collecting and preparing herbs for use
• Using soap foam in the sauna
• Using conifer branches in the sauna

Contacts:

+371 29146684

Current offers:

sensa.lv

dzintra@sensa.lv

https://www.facebook.com/SENSAekoPirts/

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Guest house “Elernes Muiža” is a renovated building that was built in 1855. It is located in the territory of the nature park “Daugavas loki” and occupies 30 ha. The guest house is meant for relaxation or various events. It is located 17 km from Daugavpils. There is a children’s playground in the territory, and it is possible to play table tennis or cycle around the nature park.

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The Guest House is a 5-minute drive from the center of Daugavpils. Visitors have the opportunity to spend time with their family or friends using one of the rest areas. It is possible to rent an arbour in the form of a ship or a large tent where you can celebrate the events – anniversaries, birthdays or another important event for you. It is offered to organize a romantic evening on the rooftop of the guest house with an unforgettable view of the night Daugavpils.

On the ground floor of the main house guests can use the banquet hall (for up to 20 persons), kitchen, pool, sauna, WC, showers, and on the second floor there is a banquet hall for up to 40 persons with bathroom and jacuzzi. There is also a catering service upon request. The bedroom windows overlook the pond and the garden. Each bedroom has a balcony. Fountains, swings, trampoline, volleyball and football field, black sauna, pond (fishing is possible), boat rental, several arbours. It is possible to organize photo sessions.

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Cafe – shop “Marianna” is located in the Silene center.

Offers:

• cafe, bar, shop;
• banqueting services;
• free parking;
• rest place next to the cafe.

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Holiday house is located between two lakes – Lukna and Boltaru . “Mazligzdina” offers rest and accommodation services up to 9 persons.
WC, Shower, kitchen (fridge, microwave oven, electric kettle, dishes) are available.

Offered services:

• free wifi,
• picnic place and barbecue facilities,
• tent places,
• fishing opportunities,
• children’s playground,
• bath house and boat rental,
• swimming place.

Pet-friendly accommodation.

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On the second floor of the guest house “Bajāri” are offered two additional rooms with a double bed in each room and a beautiful view of the night sky (on preliminary request).

For “small” guests is offered a children’s room (on preliminary request).

On the second floor there is a sauna for visitors and two rooms with beds and furniture.

On the territory of the family room with sauna is a barbecue area with a summer shower.

The sauna room has a large terrace for relaxation, as well as a kitchen for organizing events.

In the territory of the guest house, as well as in the territory of the family room with sauna, guests have also:

– fenced area – parents of children can spend their free time without being afraid that their children can run away from the territory of the guest house;

– aviary with animals (sheep);

– in the yard there is a pond and a children’s playground (slide, children’s house, swing).

The family room is also equipped with a “dry” toilet.

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Guest house “Ozoliņi” is located 7 km away from Daugavpils city centre. Banquet hall suitable for up to 25 people, sauna. Equipped kitchen (dishes, electric kettle, microwave oven, fridge and stove), 4 rooms for overnight stay (up to 15 people). Well-equipped guest house territory, a small pond, grill, arbor up to 40 people.  A separate banquet hall for up to 80 people is available in the guest house territory.

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Lielborne Manor is the only manor complex in the territory of the Nature Park „Daugavas loki“. You are welcome to enjoy the beauty of history and nature, settling down in tent places in the Lielborne manor’s yard.

From the Manor opens up view over the river Daugava and the opportunity to swim or fish  is only a few hundred metres away, therefore the Lielborne Manor is a suitable choice for water tourists. Through the Manor’s park runs the newly opened cycling route no 35.

There is the old castle, probably built in the 18^th century, as well as the new castle built in the classical style in the first half of the 19^th century. The most recent part of Lielborne Manor’s House was rebuilt in the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. The Manor house, which is a typical summer cottage-style monument in Augšzeme, is special in its decorative design and decoration, which gives a unique artistic impression.

In the Manor’s park, which spans both sides of the river Borne, are two magnificent trees – an oak and an elm. There are also larches and unusually beautiful pine trees. The walking path leads along both the steep river and its slopes. There is also a romantic view on both banks of the Daugava, the mill ruins, the waterfall. Soon there will be a millpond as just now the renovation work has started.

The recreation complex provides wide range of accommodation options. The campsite will appeal more to the true nature lovers and those who are looking for active recreation opportunities. There is an option to stay for a night in the manor house for those who prefer more comfortable living.

use local, ecological products, focusing on natural and organic ingredients in all our meals.

The guests of the manor can enjoy delicious food in the restaurant of the Lielborne manor. Local organic products are used in the preparation of dishes, special attention is paid to natural and organic ingredients. Get ready for an exciting gastronomic experience from the restaurant’s young and talented chefs!

This place will definitely enjoyed by families with kids where they will have many different active recreation facilities: swings, playground for children, climbing wall, outdoor gym equipment etc., but parents can drink a cup of tasty coffee.

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The JuRita Mini Zoo is a great place for families where you can get acquainted with different animals. It is possible to contact with animals. Guests may purchase special items from the Zoo to feed animals. Here you can meet alpacas, lamas, kangaroos, camels, dwarf sheep and goats, ponies, donkeys, horses, rabbits and other animals.

Working hours: from  June 1^st to September 30^th

I – free

II – VII: 11.00 – 18.00

From October, 1^st to May, 31^th  JuRita Mini Zoo is open only on weekends from 11 am to 3 pm.

Entry costs:
Children under 3 years old, people with disabilities under 18 years – free of charge
Children from 3 to 18 years old, seniors, people with disabilities from 18 years – 5 EUR
Adults – 6 EUR
Animal feed – 1 EUR

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Laser tag is a safe and painless shooting game with harmless infrared laser weapons, which can be played by children who have reached age of 6 years.

Shooting, running, hiding from the opponent and tension that’s lurking behind every corner, will give you your dose of adrenaline. The Laser Tag game captures every single player and, no matter how tired he is, everyone want to continue. A girl or a boy, everyone can get into a sniper or a soldier’s skin and, acting in a team, defeat the opponent. Birthday, name day or just good mark at school- “Vizbuļi” is an excellent party place or place where to spend time with friends.

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The so-called “Line of Life and Death” — the front line with a complicated fortification system, crossed the territory of Augšdaugava Municipality for many years.

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The mound was registred the first in 1882 by A.Bilensteins. In 1926 E. Brastins published the description of the mound. There was an expedition lead by J. Graudonis in 1968.

There is a well-equipped recreation place.

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Camping “Krasti” is located near Slutiski village, in the Nature Park “Daugavas loki”, in a very beautiful place on the Daugava river.

Camping offers tents sites, fireplaces, electricity, refrigerator and water.

Everyone should be warned that due to the bad road to the camping, it is difficult to drive to that by car. However, motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians and tourists sailing boats are welcome.

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Paintball is a modern, quickly evolving adrenalin sport, which requires more than just speed, agility, strength and a good physical condition. During paintball you will need a great deal of tactical thinking while staying coolheaded. You will experience joy and euphoria from victory as well as disappointment, when you find out how easy it can be to lose.

Lasertag or laser paintball is a new kind of outdoor activities, exciting team game, tactical laser battles, available to everyone, and it is completely safe. Laser tag is interesting and accessible to everybody – both adults and children, gathered, for example, in such a way to celebrate someone’s birthday. Your sweet girlfriend and children will play it with pleasure. Our instructor will help to understand and master the game quickly.

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“D.I.S.K.”  Sport Parachute Club – round parachute jumps or tandem skydiving, familiarization flights on AN -2 and JAK 18t planes, parachuting demonstrations.

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New and comfortable wooden bath and the house of celebrations is a great place for rest and celebrations.

“Manturi” offers:

• comfortable fireplace hall for banquets (for 25 – 30 persons), with a music system;
• bath services (steam room, bath broom, shower cabin);
• well equipped kitchen, tableware, possibility to cook for themselves;
• the place and all necessary equipment for shashlik and barbecue;
• children playground.

There are offered two new holiday houses with a toilet, which can accommodate 4 people. You can also rent a hot tub. There is a beautiful pond and a bath house next to the guest house.

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70 rooms are available in summer season, 35 – in winter season. It is possible to have additional sleeping places. The hostel is located in 2 km from Daugavpils – Rēzekne highway (A13). The hostel is located close to the Luknas lake beach, boat station, Vishki stage and Vishki stadium.

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Restaurant SVENTES MUIŽA offers presentable interior, the atmosphere of refined ease, the considerate attitude of the personnel and traditionalism of the Classic European cuisine. The cosy furnishings, soft fireplace light and pleasant music are conducive to rest and deliberate talk. In the summer season you can hide from the heat in a cosy pavilion nearby the fontain or on the terrace of the hotel and enjoy refreshments or seasonal meals.

The distance from the town allows to forget about the rush and fully enjoy the cheerful party atmosphere or to be lost in romantic mood. Any festivities could be celebrated in the restaurant SVENTES MUIŽA: family party, grand banquet or wedding with fireworks.
Working hours of the restaurant 10:00-22:00.

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The restaurant “Silenes Terases” is the right destination for gourmands. The traditional and exotic dishes served there, as well as the rich choice of drinks will add an unforgettable touch to your memories about the rest in Silene. The restaurant offers also a special festive menu, taking into account all the client’s wishes. It is so easy to feel like a queen or a king in the elegant atmosphere of “Silenes Terases” with a view at the lake…

Attention! Summer season the restaurant “Silene Terraces” working hours:

Mon. 12.00 – 20.00
Tu. 12.00 – 20.00
Wed.12.00 – 21.00
Th. 12.00 – 21.00
Fr. 12.00 – 22.00
Sat. 12:00 – 22.00
Sun. 12.00 – 21.00

The menu is available here.

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Designed by architect Wilhelm Neimann, the building was constructed in the second half of 19 c. as hunting palace of manor Ilgas. The architectonic solution of castle resembles Italian Palazzo style, therefore the castle and surroundings were called “Palazzo Ilga”. Daugavpils University Study Centre “Ilgas” is situated in the castle now.

Ilgas Manor Castle is located in the border zone! The castle is not accessible right now.

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Excursion around the orchard, apple warehouses and processing shops are offered by the hosts. It is possible to taste and purchase “šmakovka” (strong Latgalian traditional alcoholic drink), different berry and fruit wines and juices. Pre-order is needed.

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Vecsaliena (Chervonka) castle was built in 1870 in the Neogothic style and is located in a bend of the park, which was created in the 19th century. This picturesque building with a dynamic and complex composition of the volume is a real fairy-tale castle. The building is covered with a steep span roof. The risalits, the mezzanines and the tower add up to its plastic. The details are worked out with special carefulness. They are diverse and successfully complete the expressiveness of the space. For example, the window openings are lancet, segment, rectangle and round. Their decoration and arrangement on the facade also vary. They are classified into two, three and four, sometimes the arcade is seen. The décor of the big hall matches the round windows on the second floor. It is three impressive sharp-bow arches, that are supported by columns, what singles out this part of the facade. The stained-glass window in the baron’s cabinet and luxurious ceiling in a big hall remained unchanged. The open-planed park of 3 ha with 14 species of exotic trees is located near the castle and the building of the estate.

It is seldom when estates of Augshzeme can survive intact till nowadays. There are very few estates that look as good as the owner’s house of Vecsaliene estate. Some people say – Chervonka. It is possible that this second name has some connection to the red colour designation in Polish because the beautiful castle in Neogothic style was built of red bricks. The building started in the 19th century, in early 80s and lasted for 3 years. The bricks were taken from local kiln, limes were burned from dolomite that was extracted from the banks of the river Daugava. There is a park close to the castle, in front of it there is a wide green circle, aside around flowers of larch, the road from the castle to the pub is planted with rowanberries. There is a carriage house on the roadside; in front of its door there are two big lanterns and there are dark blue curtains on the windows.

The last castle’s owner baron von Hahn brought his wife from Berlin. Old barons were not satisfied with son’s choice because the new daughter in law came from a poor family. Despite the fact that they owned not only this luxurious castle, but also large property in Latvia and Belarus, they lived modestly. They slept on straw (straw was changed every week), the pillows were made of oat chaff. Their usual meal was potatoes and curdled milk for dinner. The old baron died before WWI and in the beginning of the 20th century the estate’s farming was neglected. The situation improved dramatically when Latvian Miller became the estate’s manager, or, as it was said at that time, a landlord. He was intelligent, well-educated, but strict. Three men were working at that time in the estate: in Cervonka – Zoldek, in Salandzeja – Smargun, in Kirlishkos – Krauklis. They were officials of the old school who birched people for being late. If farm animals dropped in the estate area, the landlord Miller requested a penalty for each cow in the amount from 3 to 7 rubles. The farmers avenged and burned down the estate’s barn and the hay barn. The foresters were also furious and did not allow the peasants and servants to pick berries, mushrooms and twigs in the woods of the estate.

But on the other hand the servants of the estate could celebrate Christmas and Easter for three days. Having finished the rye harvest, the peasants gave the baroness an ear garland, but to the baron – an ear rope. It was the only time in the year when everyone could enter the park. Beer, vodka, herrings, cakes were delivered from the city for a good party and the workers were respected. The beginning of manure transportation was particularly important. The baron himself together with his landlady came to the barn before the first cart was loaded. The wives entertained them, but the men drunk vodka.

In 1914 the baron joined Russian army. After the war he returned to his estate in the tear of 1920. The large part of Kohn property was confiscated because of the land reform, only 50 were left to the baron. The baron sold it to Roman Nikitin, but himself together with his wife, daughter and son left for Germany.

Before the WWII there was Latvian primary school in the beautiful estate’s castle Vecsaliena which peasant children attended. Doctor of Philology Velta Staltmane, the well-known name in linguistic circles, finished this school during the war. After the war, Russian as the learning language was introduced in the school, but after some time the school was closed. For a decades there was a collective farm headquater, a culture house, a library in this building.

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Crafts (the three-dimensional ceramic panels, woodwork (the ceramist Valdis Grebežs), wickerwork (Pūpoli studio), demonstrations of craft skills.
Craftsmen Village is available to visitors by appointment only. There are guided tour available around the Viski village and lunch or picnic at the lake with an overnight stay.
Valdis Grebežs – the Master of ceramic art works in the village. Basically he creates volumetric ceramic panels but he also works with wood, glass, aerated concrete, willow and stone. Master regularly participates in state, regional and international exhibitions. Pūpoli Wickerwork Studio offers to watch craftsmen working and to create something by yourself. It is possible to purchase local needlewomen and craftsmen handmade goods.

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Silene Resort & Spa offers everything necessary for unforgettable holiday: comfortable accommodation in villas and comfortable rooms, relaxing SPA treatments, chef’s specialties at “Silenes Terases” restaurant, thrilling amusement rides and entertainment activities for children and adults that suit any taste.
For accommodation Silene Resort & Spa offers comfortable villas with all modern conveniences, free Wi-Fi and individual parking, cozy rooms in our hotel, as well as equipped locations for camping. Silene Resort & Spa territory all the amenities: restrooms, locker rooms, showers, hammocks and deck-chairs.
For more active leisure Silene Resort & Spa offers many exciting options: a rope course “Lynx trail” with various obstacles, the 400-meter flight over the lake, paintball, “Bear Hunting” game and equipment rent(various elektroskooters and bicycles, boats, catamarans, water motorcycles and many others things).
For our younger guests there is a children’s playground that is made in a form of pirate ship and equipped with various slides, swings and a festive hall. Also it has a Zoo with rabbits, chickens and a goat Rose.
Restaurant “Silenes Terases” will surprise you with a variety of dishes cooked with natural ingredients grown in gardens of Silene Resort & Spa. The restaurant offers also a special festive menu, taking into account all the client’s wishes. It is so easy to feel like a queen or a king in the elegant atmosphere of “Silenes Terases” with a view at the lake…
The ideal place for a bachelor party or a meeting with friends will be a stylish pub “Silenes Krogs” where you will appreciate the French flavor of the pub’s interior decorated in a rustic style, authentic menu and a fresh cold beer that will suit any taste.
Silene Resort & Spa offers teambuilding programs and exciting group activities: paintball, basketball, football, volleyball, racing on velomobiles and many other things.
An open swimming pool, hot tub, Jacuzzi, sauna, Japanese bath – Ofuro and large wedding tent for 200 people or smaller tent for corporate events are on the territory of the Silene Resort & Spa.

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Camping “Ozianna” is located in “Daugavas loki” nature park’s territory in a picturesque place, on the Daugava river bank – near Rozalisku bend which is one of eight ancient river valley’s bends. This bend was represented on the 10 Ls banknote.

It is possible to stay for a night in camping houses or in a tent on the tent site. Camping offers an excellent rest and an opportunity to enjoy the charm of untouchable nature. It is possible to combine the rest in the camping with the most popular local tourist attractions, go for a row, and enjoy fishing or a bicycle ride. Camping’s location allows to easily access Daugavpils or Kraslava.

Offers:

• comfortable rest in camping houses on the Daugava river bank; kitchen;
• WC and shower are available in the next standing building;
• tent sites;
• trailer sites;
• bath;
• sports field;
• rest in an arbour;
• bicycle rental;
• boat rental;
• fishing opportunities;
• fire places;
• rental of grill, bowl and pot for preparing food on open fire.

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Located on the shore of Lake Sila.

Offers:

• accommodation;
• sauna;
• banquet hall, fireplace hall;
• sports field with a volleyball net;
• tent places;
• fire place;
• children’s playground;
• fishing opportunities and boats;
• the possibility to cook a fish soup.

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Located next to Lake Virogna.

Offered services:

• Accommodation in a pleasant countryside, shower, WC;
• Bath with a banquet hall;
• Tent places;
• Fire place;
• Fishing opportunities;
• Possibility to harvest and mushroom in a pine forest.

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Expositions devoted to the poet Rainis and different art exhibitions can be seen in the Berkenele manor now. It is possible to order excursions, participate in workshops and organize seminars. Read more about museum services here.

Available services:

Overnight accommodation: 3 bedrooms with 9 beds (one triple one double and one quadruple room). It is possible to accommodate 20 extra persons (mattresses + bed linen).

• Bed in a room (for one person) – 10.00 EUR per day.
• Extra bed (for one person) – 10.00 EUR per day.
• WC 1st and 2nd floor, shower – 2nd floor.
• Kitchen space in the basement and on the 2nd floor (with the possibility to store food in the refrigerators and cook the food themselves).
• Tent place in the garden – 7.00 EUR per day.

The memorial house of poet Rainis in Berkenele offers comfortable rooms for seminars, parties, creative camps, plenary sessions, celebrations:

• Second floor fireplace hall and kitchen –  35.00 EUR per hour (area 95 m²).
• Basement fireplace hall and kitchen – 25.00 EUR per hour (area 34 m²).
• In the summer, also ancient barn room can be rented – 25.00 EUR per day event (area 120 m²).

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Holiday houses “Beibuki” offers rest and accommodation services up to 40 persons on the Daugava river bank, on the “Daugavas Loki” Nature Park’s territory in 14 km from Daugavpils on Krāslava direction.

There are two separate cottages and three different baths (smoke, sauna, with bath brooms). The heated bath tub is available, too. “Beibuks” offers bathhouse attendant’s services and an opportunity to enjoy rituals of Latvian bath.

In a two-storey wooden cottage accommodation and bath are offered for a company up to 15 persons. Shower, fridge, washing machine, dishware are available. The cottage can be rented for a longer time.

In a second cottage on the first floor are two separate rooms, in each room are sleeping places for 9 persons. On the second floor there are sleeping places for 12 persons in a one room.

Next to the cottage tent sites are available. Wi-Fi, trampoline, fire places, grill and kettles.

Additional information:

Boat and wooden raft rental. Event and sport games organization.

The holiday houses “Beibuki” are not available for reservation from December till March.

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Spacious quiet place for rest on the shores of Lake Svente in nature park “Svente territory.

Offers:

• 2 log houses with kitchen, shower, WC, TV / SAT;
• a nice country bath with slots;
• sheds by the lake (10-70 persons);
• lake beach;
• boat rental;
• tent sites:
• sports and children’s playground;
• fishing and underwater hunting opportunities.

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A cottage located on a bank of Iniksi forest lake. Charming nature and serene relaxation on a Latgalian farm for families or small group of people.

At guests disposal – separate guest cottage: living room with fireplace, kitchenette with all necessary equipment, 2 bedrooms, WC, shower, bath, balcony and the terrace with spectacular view of the lake. Free WIFI

Opportunities for active recreation: boat, fishing, mushroom and berry picking.

Additional offers: rustic treats – organic vegetables, local honey, food from the forest and garden.

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Guest house “Vintāža”, located 10 minutes drive from Daugavpils. It offers a quietly,  pleasant rest on the shores of the lake. Banquet hall suitable for up to 40 pers.. Equipped kitchen (stove, oven, microwave oven, electric kettle, fridge, dishwasher). 6 rooms for overnight stay (up to 25 pers.). There is a billiard room and a large sauna. There is also a barbecue and a bucket.

During summer there are available a boat, catamaran and a SUP desk.

From October till April it is possible to rent sauna from 15.00 p.m. till 21.00 p.m. This option costs 150 euro.

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Offers:

• several equipped banquet halls for celebrations (for 15 persons, 70 persons, or 150 persons);
• catering services (on request);
• karaoke;
• dance hall;
• russian bath;
• well equipped beach and place to swim;
• accommodation.

The surroundings of the guest house are suitable for a beautiful photo session. There are more than 10 picturesque medieval castles created by the owner of guest house. All these castles create a kind of town with waterfalls and fountains, miniature windmills and cannon.  Near the complex leisure pool to be equipped with a private beach. In summer you can see a lot of storks that honeymoon will be a good sign of future happiness and prosperity. For guests have the opportunity to sleep on comfortable beds. Aura leisure, our business and nature – is the best way to relax.

Special Wedding offers: a photo session, the possibility to make a cannon shot, there is the Tree of Love for wedding locks and wedding doves.

SPA:
– body wrap treatments:

• Cool blue clay body wrap with essential oils of mint;
• Warm black clay body wrap with essential oils of mint;
• Chocolate wrap (it is effective against cellulite, overweight, it perfectly helps to reduce stress and improves blood circulation).

– the bath massage (essential oils of orange and mint),

– anti-cellulite massage, cupping (hips, belly).

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Located near the Dubna River.

Offers:

• comfortable accommodation;
• fishing opportunities in the Dubna River or Lake Lukna.

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“Rudzupuķes” is located on the ancient, historically rich Latgalian earth in a centre of picturesque “Augšzeme” elevation in Svente settlement (14 km from Daugavpils), in Svente nature park with a crystal-clean lake. You can relax and enjoy cozy atmosphere and polite service here.

Services:

• accommodation in comfortable rooms;
• Russian bath with cozy lounges and an opportunity to stay overnight;
• delicious supper and flavored coffee close to the fireplace in a romantic atmosphere;
• meals in Latgalian style;
• home-baked bread (without yeast);
• to play a billiard game;
• free Wi-Fi;
• banquet organization up to 45 persons.

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Guest house “Saules nams” is located in one of the most beautiful parts of Latgale on the shore of the peninsula of Lake Svente. We offer you not only to relax in our guest house itself, or in your circle of friends, but also to stay alone with beautiful nature, clean air and in silence. The crystal clear water, fishing or under water hunting, BBQ on the nature.

Services:

• banquet room (for 30 persons);
• everything for your presentation: PC, multimedia projector, screen;
• bath / Sauna with a comfortable lounge and the opportunity to stay overnight;
• two comfortable and bright, separate bedrooms (able to accommodate up to 4 people in each);
• spacious guest room on the second floor with a balcony overlooking the lake (up to 10-beds);
• total number of beds – 18;
• a fireplace and barbecue grill;
• place for tents;
• sports field;
• private beach;
• boat for rent;
• bicycle for rent;
• parking.

For the smallest ones, there is a great opportunity enjoy the swing and spend some fun in the children’s play area, as well as explore the Aberdeen angusius, Cherokee and hereford cows.

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“Pumpuri” is located outside Daugavpils, 400 meters from the Svente Lake. Free Wi-Fi access is available in this guest house, free bikes for guests.
The interiors of the house are done in wood and it will provide you with a TV and a balcony. There is a full kitchen with a microwave and oven. Featuring a spa bath, private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer.
At “Pumpuri” you will find a sauna and a garden. Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge, ski storage and a children’s playground. There is a boat available free of charge for guests. Guests can rent an all terrain vehicle at a surcharge.
An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including skiing, cycling and hiking. The property offers a free parking.

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The guest house “Ezermala” is situated in very picturesque place – in the territory of Svente nature park at the clean Svente Lake. This is the best place for comfortable rest in environmentally friendly area. There are guest house (for 15 people) with 3 bedrooms, kitchen, fireplace and billiards. There are also 2 bathhouses – traditional and “black”.
Fishing possibilities on the Svente Lake and on the ponds, located near the guest house. There is also a boat.

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It is located next to the Nature Park “Daugavas Loki”.

Services:

• accommodation in comfortable rooms;
• sauna and pond;
• rooms for banquet;
• children playground;
• sports field;
• Wi-Fi internet;
• free private parking.

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The guest house is located about 25 km from Daugavpils, in the village with a romantic and delicious name “Baraviki”.For those who love the silence and health we offer rest on the shores of the pond. Also in “Mežmalas” You can taste honey and take a look at how bees work.

Offers:

• accommodation and breakfast;
• banquet rooms for weddings and celebrations, table serving;
• black sauna;
• sauna, showers;
• camping places;
• children’s playground;
• fishing in the pond;
• free parking;
• comfort of guests – household appliances and equipment: refrigerator, microwave oven, cutlery, electric kettle, music center, TV;
• off-site service (Swedish tables, social events, banquets, picnics);
• home-cooked dishes;
• possibility to order shashlik and barbecue separately.

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Guest house “Pie vecā kalēja” is a place with an ancient history because the old tavern house was built during the government of the Empress of All Russia – Catherine II the Great, at that time it was used for post’s needs. Later the building belonged to baron for Engelhardt. The authentic look has been saved but owners made a corresponding interior.

Services:

• banquet room up to 50 persons;
• banquet room up to 20 persons;
• banquet organization;
• accommodation;
• sauna;
• cube;
• pond;
• place for picnic;
• children playground;
• tent sites.

There is an on-site store.

Rest possibilities: 

• pond fishing;
• rest and swimming opportunities on the pond and the Dervanishki lake which is not far from the guest house;
• a walk to secular trees or around the park.

Additional information: 
Pre-order is needed.

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Services: 

• three guest houses on a private lakeshore (10,5 and 5 sleeping places);
• 25 sleeping places, each house has its own territory separated with forest, lakeshore and boat;
• bath;
• equipped kitchen (dishware, fridge, WC, shower, hot water, firewoods, mangal);
• equipped swimming places;
• fishing (Licensed fishing has been introduced on Lake Cernava, licenses can be purchased at www.manacope.lv);
• boat and catamaran rental;
• waverunner rental;
• tent sites on equipped peninsula (arbour, lakeshore, place for fire, mangal, lighting and electricity);
• opportunity to visit “Belmonti zoo” (deer, pheasant, cow, boar, horse nurseries);
• diving;
• transfer services.

This summer will be also available rental of a waverunner (2022 SEA-DOO SPARK TRIXX IBR 2UP) and training on it (certified instructor services are included in the price).

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“Sventes muiža”**** is a  comfortable out-of-town hotel located in the old-time manor in the scenic place of Daugavpils district. The atmosphere of the renovated count manor with modern facilities is perfect for vacations, romantic weekends, business trips or festivities.

Comfortable hotel rooms, intimate restaurant with delicate menu, smoking saloon, pool, Russian and Turkish sauna, jacuzzi, conference and seminar rooms, and special banquet offer for various celebrations – all are currently available for the guests of the hotel.  The terrace, pavilion in the fountain park and swimming pool in the yard of the hotel are at the quests` service in the summer season.

Nearby is located Military equipment collection.

Services:

• Comfortable rooms (each room corresponds to the name of one of 12 months).
• Restaurant, bar, banquet rooms for weddings, festivities or banquets.
• Seminar room and coffee breaks.
• Sauna, Russian and Turkish baths, Jacuzzi.
• Billiards.
• Secured free parking.
• Walk through the well-groomed surroundings (waterfalls and antique sculptures).
• Ability to inspect the collection of old paintings and a magnificent interior.
• Visiting the exposition of military equipment collection.
• Ability to pay by credit card.

The restaurant “Sventes muiža” can be described with sophisticated atmosphere, an attentive attitude of the staff and respect for classical European cuisine. A cozy atmosphere, warm fireplace light and pleasant music are set for relaxing and leisurely conversation. In the summer season, you can hide in the cozy gazebos near the fountain or on the terrace, and enjoy refreshing drinks and summer menu dishes. The distance from the city will make you forget about the haste, and to enjoy the full blend of a fun festive atmosphere or get into a romantic mood.

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Located near the Lake Sengeida.

Services:

• banquet hall for 60 persons;
• seminar room with a projector;
• guest house (30 beds), luxury room for newlyweds;
• 3 comfortable summer houses;
• place for picnic;
• fishing;
• hunting;
• boat rental;
• volleyball, football and strightball fields;
• cook services;
• satellite television, LCD TVs;
• karaoke, pro audio equipment;
• finish sauna;
• jacuzzi;
• children’s playground;
• summer terrace;
• billiard;
• park;
• beach with pier;
• transfer from Daugavpils and from international airports of Riga, Vilnius and Kaunas;
• flexible discount system.

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If you want to enjoy the charm of Latgalian nature and to spend pleasant moments by the tranquil Vīrogna lake, You are welcome to visit the “Virogna” recreation complex! Here You can enjoy a bathhouse or fishing, go for a ride on a boat or a water bike, or just sit by the lake and spend a night in comfortable houses surrounded by the pine forest.
There are also wide possibilities to organize sport and recreational activities for companies and organizations of up to 100 people.
There is a cafe.

Available services:

• accommodation in cosy 2-bed, 6-bed, 8-bed and 20-bed houses with shower and WC;
• 3 banquet halls;
• Wi-Fi Internet connection;
• 2 saunas;
• parking lot;
• picnic area with grills and smokehouse;
• water bike rental;
• opportunities for fishing, boat rental and a boat dock;
• well-maintained beach;
• dance floor, football and volleyball fields, tennis court.

The price list (in Latvian) is available here.

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Count Boleslaw Plater-Zyberk began the building of the estate in the early 19th century. The barn, the manager’s house and the stables have remained till nowadays.
The barn is interesting for its massive forms, with the door wings and the frontispiece that is typical for Latgalian, with the roof mezzanine where the brick wall hits the wooden frontispiece. The manager’s house is a modest wooden building, located at the same level as the barn. In 1919 there was a school in the stables. But in 2004 the building was reconstructed. The Doctor of architecture J. Zilgalvis thinks that this building can serve a good example of the estate building conservation and use. The new garret fits good into the symmetrical volume; it is made of red bricks and clearly stands out against the top part of the background of the windows. The wooden building is built on the foundation of the manor house.

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Some buldings of Brunenes or Brunu Manor (German: Brunnen) has survived on the shores of Lake Brunu. Stables, 2 stone buildings and manor house remained here from 19th century. Before the agrarian reform of 1920, the manor belonged to the family of Liveni barons, but later in the manor house was located school, local store and apartments.
The manor house is built in a strict classicism style. The central volume is higher and more massive than the outer ones. Some neogothic elements are used in the finishing of the building. It is possible that the finishing was created later than building itself.

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Liksna manor  was built in 1771 in the baroque style. It was located on the right bank of River Daugava on the slope near to the River Liksna, which after 1,5 km flows into the Daugava River. Now you can see only fragments of ruins.

In one of the pictures you can see the drawing by artist Napoleon Orda “Liksna Manor” (1876).

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29 roadside Crucifixes have been saved and restored. In 20th Century (1920 – 1930) there were 44 crucifixes in the  surroundings of Vabole. After 1940 most of them were destroyed. Between 1980 and 1990 began restoration works initiated by the inhabitants of the villages. “Solys krysts”, the project organized by the Skrinda family museum restored crosses in Pudani, Vabole, Mukani, and Svetini. They have been integrated into the tourist route.

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The manor castle was built in 1890-1892 according to project of the well-known architect V. Neiman (he was the chief architect in Daugavpils in the period from 1878 to 1895). The castle belonged to August von Etingen. The castle itself is asymmetrical, with towers, turrets and roof constructions its leaves quite a picturesque impression. The castle architecture reflects mostly to medieval architecture. However, the main entrance with a small column based on a balcony has purely classic motives. It is possible to notice a similarity to the shapes of Renascence. There used to be a sculpture of Order Master Valter von Pletenberg. The initial building overview can be seen in a published picture in the book by E. Serafim. The castle interiors have not been preserved. The farm buildings and auxiliary buildings are in a completely horrible condition.

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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.

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Manor was built in the second half of the 19th century (possibly in 1875). During World War I, the manor was severely damaged. During the 20-30 years of 20th century it was inhabited by the former owner and young farmers. In the Soviet era, there was Tabore’s eight-year school, but until 2016 Tabore Elementary School was located in the building.
The basic volume of the building is symmetrical except the latter asymmetrical addition in one part. The symmetrical part with risalit in the center is artistically expressive. The risalit pediment is made from wood, in cottage style. The windows of the roof and tower also correspond to this stylistic direction, which can be seen only in the photos of 1920. In the 80s the pediment decoration, the door leaf with the skylight and other very important decorative framed details was disappeared, too. These elements made the manor house bright, tracery and appropriate to the surrounding landscape diversity.

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Lielborne Manor is the only manor complex in the territory of the Nature Park „Daugavas loki“.

There is the old castle, probably built in the 18^th century, as well as the new castle built in the classical style in the first half of the 19^th century. The most recent part of Lielborne Manor’s House was rebuilt in the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. The Manor house, which is a typical summer cottage-style monument in Augszeme, is special in its design and decoration, which gives a unique artistic impression.

In the Manor’s park, which spans both sides of the river Borne, are two magnificent trees – an oak and an elm. There are also larches and unusually beautiful pine trees. The walking path leads both along the steep river and its slopes. There is also a romantic view on both banks of the Daugava, the mill ruins, the waterfall. Soon there will be a  mill pond as just now the renovation work has started.

This  place  will definitely enjoy families with kids where they will have a lot of different active recreation facilities: swings, playground for children, climbing wall, outdoor gym equipment etc., but parents can drink a cup of tasty coffee.

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It is located between Zabornaja and Podgurji. People also call it Napoleon redoubt. In 1812 according to the order, the guns of the French army were placed on the mound to repeal attacks of the Russian army.

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Located in Vecracina of Naujene parish on the right bank of the River Daugava, 2.5 km to the south of the railway station in Izvalta. The settlement is surrounded by a deep ravine (depth about 18-27 m) from the east and south-east. There is a small observation tower. A memorial cross of Old-believers is erected here to remind about the cemetery, that was destroyed because of the planned construction of the Daugavpils HES. Vecracina Mound is a National Сultural Monument.

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It is a new-opened mound (1998) and is located near Belarus border. It is visually impressive and well-preserved. The flick ceramics is found in the cultural layer. It was inhabited from the end of the first millennium BC till the middle of the first millennium AD. Robeznieki Mound with the settlement is a National Сultural Monument.

On May 25 in 1998, the State Administration of Cultural Heritage Expedition while visiting the archaeological monuments in Daugavpils region, discovered a mound, which was previously unknown to scientists. It is a mountain, about 15 m high, where trees do not grow, with a broad, evened area, with artistically formed descents and with the pronounced mound silhouette. The mound is not damaged, though, probably before WWII it had been destroyed. The cultural layer was found not only at the top of the mound itself, but also at its foot, and judging by the dish fragments that were found there, the mound dates to the first half of the first millennium BC till the first half of the first millennium AD.
The mound has connections with a widespread and ancient Baltic typical flick ceramic culture of Latvia, Lithuania and Belarus, that is characterized by its forming without potter’s wheel and with dish that was worked up with the help of plant mops.

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It is located on the left ancient bank of the river Daugava near Daugavpils. It is partially damaged by the war trenches. The goods for fishing network, the handmade dish fragments and other antiques were found in cultural layer. It was inhabited from the first millennium BC till the first millennium AD. Lasini (Lasenberga) Mound (Gorodok) with the settlement is a National Сultural Monument.

Additional information:
The first information about Lasini mound appeared in late 30s of the 20th century. Lasini mound is made on a ravine formed by a stream on the left bank. In other places the mound rises above the nearest surrounding 4-5 m height. The mound has a round form. The dimensions of its plane are 40×43 m. The plane has a small descent to the East direction. On the East and on the East side, 6-8 m below the plane, the mound is covered with 2-3 m wide terrace, which in SE direction turns into up to 3 m deep ravine between the mound and up to 3 m height rampart. The second rampart is made on the SW mound’s foot where the height is the smallest. The first rampart is crossed by the mound’s entrance which goes deeply into the ground. The mound’s plane is partially damaged by a number of the war-time trenches.
In the mound plane, in slopes, SE and NW, the intensive cultural layer was discovered, where the goods for fishing network and the handmade dish fragments (smooth, iron, flick and other ceramics) were found and this allows Lasini mound dating from the first millennium BC till the first millennium AD.

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The small and very simple Jaunborne Holy Cross Catholic Church was built in 1859 at will of Polish landlord Julius Sivickis. It was rebuilt in 1890 and renewed in 1921. The most interesting for art admirers are woodcarving of organ prospectus, which, probably, is a part of mannerism style from Elerne Church’s furnishing. There is a cemetery around the church, where are burials of Sivickis family.
Jaunborne church was built of stone and had shape of the cross. From the outside it was colored white. Its roof was made of galvanized plate-tin and had one tower and a small gazebo in the middle.

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It was built in a pine forest near the left bank of the River Daugava in 1819. A wooden church was built there in the ancient times. It is believed that the church was carried on a raft by one Russian serf. The church burned a few times, but it was restored each time. At first the church belonged to the Catholic community, but it was given back to Lutherans instead of Elerne church in the second half of the 18th century.

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The temple complex of Old Believers’ community in Medumi consists of a chapel, a free-standing bell tower and a house. The available sources indicate different dates of the prayer house building – in the range from the early 20th century until 1940. Taking into account that the interior is decorated with the icons painted in the early 20th century and the facades of the house are decorated in the style of the early 20th century, this date seems more appropriate.
The chapel is interesting because it gives the idea of how the religious building of Old Believers looked till 1905, at that time, when they were not allowed to give a recognizable form to their churches. The chapel is a four walled wooden blockhouse, to which a small vestibule is attached, which is similar to the house hall. The gable roof has no heads, only two crosses over the east and west pediments. The facades are decorated with window frames, pilasters at the corners of the blockhouse and with the roof cornice. These modest decorative items and carpentry techniques are quite similar to those that can be observed on the wooden part (now this part is demolished) of chapel un Old Fordstadt in Daugavpils. One can assume that the bell tower is similar to the one that once stood near Old Fordstadt church. The prayer house in Medumi is smaller than the prayer house in Old Forstadt and the complex of buildings stands freely in the landscape, what gives the idea of a typical rural Old Believers church in Augsdaugava region.
The prayer house has been recently qualitatively renovated. The slate roof has been replaced with modern steel “riffling”, although originally the roof was probably covered with shingles or sheet metal with folds.

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The parish in Krivani was founded in 1908, but the chapel was built later. It’s decoration is not typical for chapels of Augsdaugava region. At the same time the architectural composition, shapes and details resemble the wooden part (that now is demolished) of the chapel in Old Fordstadt in Daugavpils. Perhaps, this chapel was a model for the builders in Krivani.
The building has a rectangular shape with a dedicated vestibule and a porch under the canopy. The rectangular bell tower “grows” through the roof, an almost circular head above it. The wooden blockhouse is partially covered with boards. The choruses are arranged above the vestibule. The solea is finished with a balustrade. The prayer house has a three-tier iconostasis with the shelves with icons and the chandelier with candles. There is a flat beam overlap that is covered with boards. The walls are covered with wallpaper.
In Soviet times the prayer house was an architectural monument.

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Initially the Korolevscina chapel looked differently. In the picture of 1927 we can see the non-planked blockhouse with four windows on the longitudinal facades, the roof made from shingle, the corbelled wooden shed, the small bell tower with opened doorways for ringing that grows from the roof and is covered with the board roofing, the wooden crosses over the eastern part of the building and the bell tower, the whole image of the traditional wooden prayer house.
Later, the chapel was covered with boards, there are two windows on the facades, on the roof were built a rather large head in a form of an onion and the iron roof. The rectangular attic windows have now a diamond-shaped sash. The bell tower underwent the biggest rebuilding. The new forms are similar to the motifs of the Protestant churches, they were probably borrowed from the surrounding cultural environment in Latgale and testify the process of the mutual influence between the two cultures.
The ceiling in the prayer house is made in the form of a wooden arch, in the mansard style with two fractures on the sides of the prayer room. The iconostasis has two shelves with icons. The solea is separated by a low fence with flat sawn balusters.

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The parish of Lipiniski is one of the first Orthodox parishes in Daugavpils region. The first wooden church was consecrated in 1836. The current church building funds are donated by the parish members, as well as by Polotsk-Vitebsk episcopacy. The church was built in 1906 and was consecrated in 1908. The church was constructed in the form of a cross in Byzantine style and is made of red bricks and it has two towers. There are a lot of decorative elements in the facade design.

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It is situated in Skrudaliena civil parish approximately 17km from Daugavpils. It was built in 1800 as an affiliate of Cervonka St. Nicholas Church in landed property of Fölkersahm. In 1811 it became the church of the parish. While building the church, Landlord Fölkersahm decided to renovate both the church and the buildings belonging to it. However, his successors resigned from the duty and in due course the church went into such poor condition that there even couldn’t be held the services. As the parish couldn’t stay without a church, in 1862 was built new church. In 1872 this church became the parish church. Was built new belfry, cupola and all the building was covered with iron tin roof. Complete overhauls of the church were done in 1926 and 1937.

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Saliena Church was built in 1894 from abated rocks and it had brick lining inside. Church was consecrated in 1895.

History of the church:
Saliena parish is one of the oldest Orthodox parishes in environs of Ilūkste. First wooden church on land of Saliena manor was built in 1760. As time passed the wooden constructions became unsafe, that’s why in 1859 in concordance with the order of the eparchy it was closed and demolished. In the same year owing to means allocated by landlord of Saliena manor Nīmans near Tartaka cemetery there was built and consecrated new wooden church which received the name of St. Nikolaos the Wonderworker. It wasn’t spacious (only 18m long and 8m wide) and its appearance was depressive. In 1889, when archdiocese was established, archbishop of Rīga Arsenijs personally ascertained that in Saliena it was necessary to build new church, and he promised parish members to find means for this purpose. In May of 1890 were started negotiations about the purchase of piece of land for construction of new church, school and household building. Local landlords – von Neimans – agreed to donate for this ambition 5 hectares of building plot. Owing to efforts of bishop of Rīga Arsenijs means for building were received from large-scale merchant from St. Petersburg A.I.Gruzdev. Building of new church (23.63m long, 10.64m wide and 7m high) was finished in 1894 and it cost 6000 roubles. In 27 August 1895 it was solemnly consecrated and received the name of St. John the Baptist.
Saliena Church was built of abated rocks and it had brick lining inside. Iconostasis was one-storey and artistically of high quality. For blessing of Saliena parish members archbishop of Riga Arsenijs in day of consecration of the church sent icon “Erecting of Jesus’ Cross”, but large-scale merchant from St. Petersburg A.Gruzdev donated 650 roubles for purchase of church objects and for church equipping. Old wooden church in 1921 was transported to piece of land that was in possession of the church and was rearranged into the school. For the needs of priest’s house in March of 1898 archdiocese for 4450 purchased from landlord Henriha Nīmana 2 wooden buildings with household outhouses. Wherewithal area of the land that was in possession of the church increased up to 8.57 hectares. In 1898 in Saliena parish there were 1110 members, but in 1938 – 643.

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Jesus’ Heart Catholic Chapel in Dubna (Varsavena) was built in 1800 as a wooden octagonal building with an extension of the altar part. This is the only sacred building of this type in the Augsdaugava district.

History of the church:
In 18th century Dubna joined the sphere of activity of Daugavpils Jesuits. Here was situated a post of Jesuits’ mission (1702-1765). Jesuits there also had property. In 18th century Dubna was a part of Nidermuiza (at present time in Preili district) Catholic parish. In 1761 in churches’ visitation documents here was mentioned oratory (initially chapel was located in Dubna manor). Wooden Dubna chapel, which has centric planning, in present location was built in 1880. In 1882 the chapel was rebuilt, thus receiving present-day appearance. In the chapel there was neo-gothic wooden altar with the painting of “Jesus’ Heart” (later the altar was moved to church in Viski, now it is in Riga). The chapel – planked log building – was built by local masters. Greater renovation works in the building were done in 1934 and 1938. In the beginning of 1950s the chapel was possessed by local kolkhoz and it was used as a warehouse. Chapel inventory was divided between Aizkalne and Viski churches and Gornajaši (Kalnajasi) chapel. In 1990s got back the building of chapel and it was renovated.
Dubna chapel is octagonal building with elongations in sanctuary part and near the entrance. Roof of the wooden chapel has pyramidal shape and is crested by small tetragonal tower. Chapel’s wooden ceiling, which is supported by four wooden bearer bars, is matched to shape of roof construction: in the middle it is gradual, but from the sides – beveled. Above the entrance there is a gallery. In the gallery there are placed benches. Inner walls are planked. Lancet arch door and window openings as well as decoration work of the facade indicate the use of neo-gothic elements. In the chapel there have remained old churchgoers’ benches, crucifix, made in first half of 20th century (local master Konstantin Poplavskiy), and openwork original frame of altar painting. New wooden altar was made by local master.
Catholic chapel in Dubna is centric sacral building of small nave, characteristic to Latgalian architecture, built in second half of 19th century. The chapel has combined traditions of local timber building and forms of neo-style architecture.

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St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Sprukti was built of cement bricks at the expenses of the parish and the bishop in 1933 – 1938.

History of the church:
In Sprukti there had been wooden chapel. In one documents it is mentioned that it was built in 1820, in other – in 1785. The chapel was antiquated already in 1866. The present-day Sprukti parish was found in 1933 (Izvalta and Jezupova parishes were merged together, altogether 12 villages and approximately 1500 members). In 3 July 1933 Vaclavs Kozlovskis was elected dean of new parish of Sprukti. He settled in private houses. Dean V.Kozlovskis, who in his youth was building technician in Daugavpils, worked out the building plan of the church and led all the building works. The parish brought stones and gravel necessary for the building.
In 10 September 1933 dean of Kraslava J.Kiselis consecrated the foundation of the new church. In the same year was built dwelling house and there was established temporary chapel. Means for the building of the church were given by parish and bishop. In June the church in Sprukti was consecrated by dean J.Kiselis. The church was built and only the towers had to be built. After the consecration services were held in the church. Dean V.Kozlovskis was promoted to vicar and transferred to Varakļāni. In 8 August in Sprukti arrived dean V.Litaunieks. He built the towers of Sprukti Church. In 1938 the dean of Sprukti parish was elected Stanislavs Kokins who finished building of the church.
The church is 28m long, 16m wide and 12m long and has 2 towers. It was built of cement bricks. Its floor is cement, but ceiling – wooden, plastered and vaulted. From the outside the church is not plastered, but inside it is plastered and colored. On both sides of the presbytery there are small sacristies. The church is devoted to St. Anthony. On big altar there is painting of St. Anthony that was brought from Izvalta Church. In side altar there is niche with big statue of Virgin Mary that was also brought from Izvalta Church. On third altar there is painting of Jesus Heart painted by painter Zilvinska.

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The church was built in the period from 1933 till 1935 according to the project of architect Pavlov under the supervision of J. Klonis at the expenses of the parish.

History of the church:
Catholics from surroundings of Medumi went to Smelina. There was old wooden church that was rebuilt in 1854. After World War I the church left in Lithuania. After border’s closing visitors of the church every time had to go through pass formalities. It caused great inconvenience. Therefore deans who lived in Griva already since 1922 went to Medumi to conduct the services. Services were held in house of Catholic host Jazeps Gabrans. The house was big and was situated 2km from the centre of Medumi. In 1928 in Medumi parish there were approximately 1000 members and it was considered as an affiliate of Griva. In 1931 for the needs of Medumi Church were assigned 16 hectares of the land. It was measured out from national foundation by surveyor Mikelans in uninhabited area, in mound, overgrown with bushes. There also was offered another choice, closer to Medumi centre, where now is located Old-Believers’ Church. As for head of the parish Azarevičs the mould was 2km closer than the centre, he chose overgrown mould. Also Griva dean J.Plonis, who managed Medumi Church affairs, agreed with him. After the assignment of the land dean J.Plonis started to build the church. The plan was worked out by architect Pavlovs. Parish members already since 1932 were collecting means for the church’s building: organized lotteries, “lucky-dip”, social gatherings, etc. From other churches inhabitants of Medumi didn’t receive any help. With the permission of bishop J.Rancāns the foundation of Medumi Church was consecrated by dean J.Plonis in 24 June 1933, on the Day of John the Baptist. In celebration participated a lot of people. The church was built of concrete bricks. Work moved forward very successfully and already in 10 June 1935 the church was windowed, it had temporary roof and first services were held. In 1936 J.Kazenas was appointed the regular dean of Medumi parish (born in 1869, ordained in 1895). There was no a house of priest yet, that’s why dean lived in private house, not far from the church. In September of 1937 was started building of two-storey priest’s house. In the same year there were finished wooden decoration works of the church.
In 2 July 1939 bishop of Liepaja A.Urbss made canonical visitation to Medumi Church. He was accompanied by several clergymen and students of LU Roman Catholic theology faculty. After bishop’s visitation building works were continued too, but when World War II was started, they remained unfinished.
The church was 15m long, 10m wide and 7m high and it had 3m long and 10m wide porch propped on 4 concrete pillars. The area of the church was 100m² (without the presbytery and choral rooms). Unfinished gazebo was roofed and it had four-sided plate-tin terrace. According to the plan the gazebo had to have high spire. The church had 3 altars. Big altar was made of stone and above it there was big painting of John the Baptist in oaken frame. This Saint was also the patron of Medumi Church. On both sides of the presbytery there were small sacristies. On the right side there was altar of Christ the King with big bas-relief figurine. On the left side there was altar of Our Lady of Lourdes. The church had wooden floor and ceiling. Ceiling was plastered. There were choral rooms with harmonium of company “Bokum”. From the outside the church was plastered in 1969. There were 3 entrance doors in front part of the church and one – from the sacristy. In 1975 in the church was connected to the central heating system. Stopped works in Medumi Church were not continued till 1954, it was unattractive and in the building reigned poverty. When in 1954 authorized representative of religious affairs Resbergs visited Medumi Church, he was indignant and wondered: “Is it church or cattle-shed?” After that dean J.Gavracs plastered the church from the inside and started to decorate the church. Dean L.Lapkovskis from 1957 continued the started work and finished its building and its equipping with the necessary facilities. In the church there were relics of St. Modest that were approbated by bishop A.Urbss in 1938. Next to the church there was a chapel. It was consecrated with the permission of bishop Rancans by dean J.Plonis in 1933.

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In 1800 landlord Casimir Plater-Zyberk in Svente built stone church in honor of the Trinity. Sacral building was consecrated in honor of Michael Archangel.

Church was built of stone and has rectangular form. It is 26m long, 16m wide and 8m high. From the outside it is plastered with lime mortar in which were put scrabblings. The shed, corner pillars, door and window frames are plastered and colored in white. The roof made of galvanized plate-tin. Above the facade roof there is approximately 5m high gazebo with bells. On each side the church has 5 windows, 2 windows next to the front entrance and one window in each sacristy. There is front entrance, entrances from the sides and from the sacristy.
Svente Church has wooden floor and ceiling. There are 3 wooden altars, benches for worshippers, and a pulpit. All this was made by joiner S.Meinards in 1913. Along the walls there are pictures of the Way of the Cross made of plaster. They were made by Serafinovics in 1913. Initially they were presented to Grendzes Church. Then the presenter recalled the present and presented it to Svente Church. To Grendzes Church were brought lithographic pictures of the Way of the Cross from Svente Church. In the right corner of the presbytery there is wooden statue “Ecce Homo” that was purchased by Juris Pieskovskis. Choral rooms, where the organ is placed, are propping on 2 great stone pillars. Presbytery is separated from the church by wooden God table. On big altar there is painting of the Holy Trinity. On both sides of the altar there are wooden pillars. Both side altars are made similarly to the big altar. On the right side there is altar of St. Michael with the painting, on the right – altar of St. George with the painting. All three paintings are the work of good painter. On both sides of the presbytery there are sacristies, above them – storerooms. Ceiling in sacristy is made of wood, but wooden floor step by step was changed to cement floor by dean A.Zilvinskis.
Around the church garden there is stone fence without roof. There are front and side entrance gates. In the garden there grow old foliage trees. Beyond the church fence, in front of the presbytery, there is priest’s house where lived dean A.Zilvinskis. Approximately 1km from the church there is parish cemetery. There are buried four deans: P.Smelters (1868 – 1947), M. Mikelonis (1875 – 1950), S. Sikur-Kalvani (1892 – 1970), B. Dure (1894 – 1971).

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In Northern part of Daugavpils, on Nicgale-Spogi and Vabole-Upmala crossroads the attention of the tourists there is attracted by Kalupe Sacrament Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Altar built of red bricks. First Kalupe church was built of pine tree beams in 1785. This church was built by the Count of Liksna – J.Zyberk, with the help of master Sidlovskis. Wooden church has two gazeboes and it was 19.2m long and 8.1m wide. The church served inhabitants of Kalupe for 97 years. After the demolition of the church in its place there was located a cross that still nowadays stands in pine stand of the former manor. In 1861 was laid the foundation of the new stone Kalupe church. Means for church building were given by parish, Count, and dean S.Beinarovics. Political events delayed the process of building for 20 years. In 1882 the church was built and dean S.Beinarovics consecrated it. This event is perpetuated in facade of the church: “1882. Deo omni potenti”. In 1896 the church was consecrated by Mahilyow dean Albins Simons.
The church is built of red bricks, it has no towers and is 34.4m long and 19.2m wide. Above the facade rises iron cross. The building has shape of cross, has tin plated roof, wooden ceiling and stone-tiled floor. In 1913 its walls were artistically painted.
The church has three wooden altars with numerous figures of the Saints. In the middle of the main altar there is the statue of Christ with a ciborium in His hand, on sides there are statues of St.Teresa and St.Stanislaus, near the God table on the right side there is a statue of St.Francis. On right side altar there is a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, on left altar – a statue of St.Michael Archangel. These statues were bought in Paris in 1928. On the walls of the church there are plates of black marble with memorial inscriptions of Zyberk on them. The church has three bells. One of them has 400kg in weight, other two are smaller and lighter. Around the Church garden there is red-brick fence. In the garden was buried assassinated dean Klements Apss (1913 – 1990).

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Present-day wooden building of Silene Roman Catholic Church was built in 1913, in time of dean Mikelis Skorupskis, not far from the burnt down chapel that was built in 19th century. Silene Church is one of the largest wooden churches in Riga’s Metropolis and the largest in Jelgava diocese. It has a cruciform shape. The church has one large tower and several smaller gazeboes.

History of the church:
In Silene (Barkovka) there was old wooden chapel that was built in 19th century. In almanac of Telsiai diocese of 1911 it was mentioned as affiliate of Elerne where lived priest Peteris Purovskis. This chapel burned down. According to the remaining foundation the church was 14m long and 6m wide. Now on these foundation is built small hut and it is situated approximately 50m from the church. The chapel was devoted to St. John the Baptist.
Present-day Silene wooden church was built by Mikelis Skorupskis. He was vicar in Elerne. In Silene he bought a piece of land and gave it to Lapinskis. Lapinskis helped the church a lot. After the death he was buried in parish cemetery and on his tombstone there is an inscription which says that he had been the benefactor of the church. Priest M.Skorupskis from Elerne in 1913 built wooden church in Silene at his own expenses. The year of its building is inscribed on foundation near the presbytery.

Description of the church:
Silene Church is one of the largest wooden churches in Riga’s Metropolis – it is 24m long, 14m wide and 12m high. From the outside it is planked and coloured. The roof is covered with galvanized plate-tin. Above the roof there is one tower and several smaller gazeboes. The church was built in cruciform shape and is very specific and beautiful. It has entrances from the front, from sides and from the sacristy. There are a lot of big windows. It has wooden floor and wooden sloping covered ceiling. In the middle the ceiling is high, but from the sides – lower. The walls are propped by 4 bundle beams that have peculiar woodcut. The ceiling is propped on 4 wooden planked pillars. The walls also are planked, but are not coloured. In the church there are 3 altars. Big altar is made of oak and has painting of painter Bitkovs. On left side altar there is a painting of St. Joseph painted by the same painter. Right side altar has the painting of Jesus’ Heart painted by Glaudans. All 3 altars were made in time of dean M.Klaviņs. The church is separated from the presbytery by God table. There are two sacristies: on the left side there is a vestry, on the right side – storehouse with different church accessories and tools. Choral rooms are propped on wooden pillars. There is only a harmonium. On both sides above the choirs there are 2 rooms for participants of pageants. Below, near the entrance on both sides there are dark rooms for Christmas Bethlehem and Holy Week’s services. In the parish there are two cemeteries.

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The building of Jezupova (Juzefova) St. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church was started in 1934 and was finished in 1961. After the building was finished the church was taken from the parish and there was established club. In 1989 the church was returned to the parish.

History of the church:
The name of Juzefova (Jezupova) originated from the name of landlord Juzefs (Jezups) Sadurskis. Earlier its name was in Lithuanian “Naujene” or “Novene”. First wooden church in Juzefova was built before 1685. Bishop N. Poplavskis in 1685 consecrated one altar in Jezupova Church. Probably the church was recently built and there were no other altars to consecrate. This church in Jezupova existed for at least 97 years. In 1782 at the expenses of Stanislavs Sadurskis in Jezupova built new wooden church that was devoted to St. Peter and Paul. This church existed for 162 years. In 1944, when Germans retreated, it burnt down. There was left only a house of the parish. Daugavpils dean Vladislavs Zundo in this building established a praying house and there he conducted services. At the time of Janis Strods the building was rebuilt. To the building was attached a presbytery and a sacristy. The ceiling was removed to make the building higher. The church (praying house) of Juzefova Parish was 14m long and 9.8m wide mill building. During the activity of dean A. Blazevics (1961 – 1970) the church was planked and roofed with plate-tin. There were placed 2 side altars, was purchased the painting of St. Peter (work of painter Peilane). During the service of dean J. Mukans (1970 – 1977) the church was coloured from the inside, its outside walls were covered with white bricks, double windows were put, around the territory of the church there was built wooden fence propped up with concrete columns. There were purchased paintings of Jesus’ Heart, St. George, Birth of Jesus, the Last Supper of Christ, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Building of Juzefova stone church was started in the time of dean I. Broks (1934 – 1936). In 29 June 1936 the principal of Aglona gymnasium, dean Aloizs Broks consecrated the foundation of the church. The church was built of abated stones. In the time of dean I.Broks the church was built only up to the level of windows. In guidance of dean A. Turks it was built up to the roof. Then came time of the War and building works were stopped. The church remained unfinished till 1959. In guidance of dean S. Petusko and the student of Spiritual seminar Olgerts Daleckis in 1961 building work were finished, but soon the church was expropriated. In Soviet times there was a club, a library, and other institutions. The church was regained only in 1989. In 27 December 1989 it was consecrated by bishop V. Nukss. In 1990 inside reconstruction works have been done, as a result church regained her look.

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The church was built in 1895–1896. The project author is the architect Wilhelm Neumann. The church is a small, one-volume hall-type building with one-tower facade. The building has a gable roof. Now, the building is laid up and is not used.

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It was build thanks to August Pfug project and was consecrated in 1878. The building is made of chipped stones with a filling of a splinter. The corners and the edges of the church are made of red bricks, on the surface of which is there are stamps with the inscription Kalkunhen. The bricks were produced in the Kalkuni brick factory. There are the 19th century pictures and icons in the church.

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It was consecrated in 2006. The temple is located in the building of the former estate and station Zemgale (1928).

History of the church:
In the early 20-ies of the 20th century, in the building of the church there was a railway station on the Latvian-Polish border. The building was built very quickly, with massive walls and a beautiful dome over the central part of the building. In 1944, the Germans, retreating, wanted to wipe it off the face of the earth, and therefore, two thirds of the building went into oblivion.
Until the early 60s of the 20th century the building was a station, but later the Latvian railway refused it. The hosts changed, and the building finally emptied. It stood on the edge of the path, unnecessary, with a leaky roof, stagnant and moldy walls, empty windows and doorways, until the deans from Daugavpils A. Madelan and A. Olekhno found him, as well as priest Klavchan.
The construction of the temple lasted three years. The parishioners on their own made a complete restoration of the building. Some of the building materials were purchased thanks to the support of local government. The German organization “Bonifacius werk” and the community “DauTkom” also took an active part in this.

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The way from Daugavpils to Demene is accompanied by several long stretched lakes – Ustuka, Demene, Brigene, and others. View of the banks of these lakes has charmed a lot of people. There is a lot of estates in this place. One of them is in Brigene. It is near the former complex of Brigene manor where is situated one of the most beautiful national landmarks in Daugavpils district – a mausoleum (chapel) that was built in Classicism style by order of landlord Max von Engelhardt in honour of his deceased wife Dorothea von Engelhardt (1862 – 1898). Unfortunately at the present moment the mausoleum is in very poor condition.

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The Old Believer community in the village of Voitiski was founded in 1740. The first chapel was a wooden blockhouse, without a footing, with a straw roof. In the 19th century chapel suffered from fires several times and was damaged during the Second World War and restored again. In 1979 the building was burned again. After this incident it was decided to build a stone chapel. The church complex consists of a fence with gates, chapel and buildings for clergy. The founders of the parish chose a very beautiful place for the chapel: high coast of Lake Bruniu, from which opens a wide panorama of the surroundings.

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The chapel was built in the late 19th century. It was made of logs and is covered with horizontal boards. There is a high bell tower covered with the unusual four-sided roof. The windows are decorated with jamb, which is ornamented with woodcuts.

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St.Family’s Roman Catholic Church in Aukskalne is 18.5m long and 8.5m wide wooden building covered with bricks. In spring of 1946 dean Janis Strods started building of new church in place of another one, burnt down in 1944. Parish members were very sympathetic, especially people from Demperi and Rudziski. Part of building materials was bought by the forestry, but the greatest part was donated by parish members. The skeleton of the building was made of logs, then it was planked filling the empty places with sawdust. In 14 August 1947 new church was consecrated by dean Janis Strods.

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It was built by order from Count Henrih Plater-Zyberk near the valley of the Daugava River in 1863.  Church  had been made in the Neo-Gothic style.  The length of the church is 17m, width – 10m and height – 7,8m (without bell-tower).  Over the main entrance is a tetragonal tower, which is 13 axes in height.  From 1956 the priest of the church was Antons Gerins, which funded the church development.  He obtained a new organ, in the Gothic style and built two altars – in the one side – the Virgin altar, on the other side – St. Anton altar.  There is a garden and a stone fence around the church.

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It is situated 0,5 km from Maskovska Orthodox Church in the direction of Ambeli. There is a picturesque view on the Viski Lake.

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Manor House is a red brick building with a neo-gothic tower on one side. Manor House was owned by von Wagner and also by Kazan’s merchant Vasily Koriakin. At the beginning of the 20th century, the estate belonged to Countess Victoria Plater-Zyberk. At the moment, the building has completely changed its character, as a new two-story part form silicate bricks was added. Former Laucesa Elementary School.

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Located near the memorial house of Latvian poet Janis Rainis. The church was built in 1830, but since the Soviets seized the church, it does not work for many decades. Its steeple is decorated with the ornamental weathercock – the oldest in Latgale (1649). There is a tomb of Rainis’s German language teacher Bazener near the Lutheran Church. On the right side from Bazener’s tomb is a cemetery place of Birkineli ex – landlord, baron von Hamilkar fon Felkerzam.

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The church was built in Vilkumiests by landlord A.Oettingen in 1823. In 1863 the church’s tower was built. During World War I it was destroyed, and during World War II – absolutely vandalized.

History of the Church:
Egyptian evangelic Lutheran parish was established in 28 February 1567 by the order of duke of Kurzeme. Approximately in 1584 Egyptian parish already had its own pastor. Around the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries near the church there appeared a hamlet that was called Vilkumiests. Vilkumiests is also the real Latvian name of the parish. Egyptian parish had several widen churches, the last of which was destroyed in 1812 during the French War.
The landlord of Kalkune and Medni (Medums) manor in 1823 started to build stone church that was consecrated in 5 July 1825. In 1863 A.Oettingen did complete renovation of the church and built a tower. Simultaneously with the establishment of Egyptian parish the landlord of Medņi manor W.Fürstenberg established a pastorate that suffered much during the wars, because it was situated on the roadside of Daugavpils. During the French War and especially World War I the archive of the parish was totally destroyed.
After World War I, in 1930, Egyptian church was restored. It had seating capacity for 80 people. In the possession of the parish there were 54 hectares of pastorate land. In 1936 Egyptian parish had 50 members, were christened 3 children, one youth was confirmed. Incomes of the parish made 1988.86 lats, expenses – 1231.11 lats. It is known that on the coat of arms of Egypt-Birkeneļi Lutheran church was illustrated the Pyramid of Cheops, whereas usually on such coat of arms were illustrated crosses or other religion symbols.
During World War II in 1944 the tower of Egyptian church was shot by canon because at that time in the tower was located fire lookout. The church was totally destroyed. After World War II chaplain Nikolajs Muiznieks from Daugavpils conducted the services both in destroyed church and in church attendant’s local house, which now is demolished. But very soon due to the small number of the parish members governmental authorities prohibited to conduct services both in Egypt’s church and in the parish. Wherewithal Egyptian parish was closed and the few parish members joined Birkeneļi parish, but after Birkeneļi parish being closed all the members joined Daugavpils evangelic Lutheran church. After Egyptian church closure in the building was located kolkhoz’s chaff flour mill that was operated with the electricity. Around 1979 milling was stopped and the mill was dismantled. At this time the church is unused, empty and pitiful. The doors are broken out. Egyptian evangelic Lutheran graveyard that is located around the church is abandoned and overgrown. All the tombstones of the unknown bodies were brought away. Only some graves are in order. Last funeral in Egyptian graveyard was in 6 March 1980. This was the funeral of Sofija Vainags. In the Egyptian graveyard also is a grave of Oskars Svensons, the teacher of Rainis.

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Laucesa St.Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church is wooden building built in period from 1921 till 1923 in place of old wooden church that was built in 1797 and burnt down in 1920.
In Laucesa there was one of the oldest churches in Zemgale. In 1665 it already was serviced by Jesuits from Ilukste. It was situated on land of landlords Ludvinghauzens-Volfs. Volfs kin in Livonia was very influential.
Laucesa Church is 30m long and 12m wide, covered with boards and painted .There were entrances from the front, from sides and from the sacristy. Church had wooden floor and ceiling. There were choir rooms with harmonium. Around the church garden there was stone fence with 14 red brick posts with pictures of the Way of the Cross. The fence was remained from the previous church. In left corner of the garden there was a belfry that was built of beams. Not far from the belfry there is a grave of dean Tadejs Ronkaitis (1859 – 1928). In the cemetery were buried the following deans: Janis Labovskis (died in 1861), Brublevskis, Stefans Bertasus (1867 – 1947), Peteris Rudzits (23 July 1898 – 25 November 1968), Antons Rukmanis (1896 – 1976).

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St. Peter and Paul Church in Danisevka is located on the same street with the Old Believers’ chapel, right next to it. The church was built as a church of Common Faith. The need for the construction of the church emerged already in 1871, but the parish was opened only in 1903. The initiator of the construction of the church was Ioann Digilev, who turned into Common Faith in 1902. About 50 people joined him. I. Digilev received the priesthood. At first, the divine services were in the ordinary farmhouse that was adapted for this purpose. I. Digilev led the construction himself. He traveled to Moscow and St. Petersburg to collect donations and to buy the church equipment. The church was consecrated in August 1908. During the WWI the military unit was stationed in Danisevka, the soldiers of which were fed by the church. In 1920 the church was greatly damaged by the artillery shelling and repaired in 1926 – 1931. Since then, the church has remained without rebuilding.
St. Peter and Paul Church is built in a “ship” form, the volume composition is solved hierarchically. The enlarged main room is a little bit prolonged (due to the solea), the vestibule and the altar that are reduced in height and width are joined to it. The modest bell tower is placed above the vestibule. Each part has its own pyramidal roof similar to a canopy. The church is crowned with five cupolas; the small heads are located on the corners of the main volume. The wooden blockhouse is covered with boards on the outside of the church. The facade decor is very modest: the carved pillars of the porch, the cornice of the roof and the very simple window frames. Inside, the ceiling, the eastern wall and the low wall panel are covered with boards. The prayer hall has a beautiful two-tiered iconostasis made of dark wood and richly decorated with motifs of vine.

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Old Believers community in Danisevka was founded in 1728. The chapel that has been preserved till nowadays, probably was built after 1905. The eastern part of the church is slightly narrowed. The church is covered with a gable roof, from which on the west “grows” a rectangular bell tower that is crowned with a canopy and a small head. The wooden blockhouse is covered with boards. There are only two windows on the southern and northern facades. The only decorative accent is a small diamond-shaped window over the entrance. The common image of the chapel has been created thanks to the precisely found proportions of shapes.
The massive beams of the ceiling are opened in the interior; there is a rough planking between them. The solea has a ceiling in the form of a wooden arch. The iconostasis of the church is arranged according to the ancient tradition: two shelves on which the icons are located. Very simple candlesticks and a chandelier, the balusters that protect the solea – this is the way the interior is arranged. The traditions of Old Believers have been successfully kept within the walls of this rural chapel.

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Old Believers community in Ascuki was founded in 1859. The present chapel was built in 1910 at the place of the former chapel. After the Direktive “On Toleration” in 1905, Old Believers were allowed to build religious buildings and to build up their cemeteries. Before WWI, several communities in Dvinsk region had time to update their churches, the chapel in Ascuki is among them. The building is simple in its shape: a rectangular prayer hall, a small vestibule, a covered tambour (probably it was rebuilt later) instead of a porch and a gable roof. The wooden blockhouse is covered with boards; the roof is covered with metal roofing with folds. The western fasade is interesting because it is decorated with a small “rose” – a round window with the radial sashes. In Daugavpils region only Ascuki prayer house has such a window.
The tiered iconostasis has the icons that were created in 1830 – 1914. The ceiling is flat, with slight slants along the outer walls. The beautiful circular chandelier hangs in the center of the chapel; it is a real canonical horos. This chapel can be called a typical Old Believer’ chapel of this region with the original decoration. In Soviet times the chapel was an architectural monument.

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Krivosejeva Old Believers Chapel is built in the beginning of the 20th century, around 1906. The roof was erected in 1926. The chapel are built in the log house technique and clad with horizontally painted boards. The iconostasis combines the free placement of different icons, in general, it is designed in accordance with Old Believer traditions. Icons are painted during in the period from middle of 19th century till the 60s-70s years of 20th century. One of the books from the chapel (1575) is included in the National Protected Cultural Monuments List.
Alongside the temple there is an Old Believers’ Cemetery, where you can see ancient unique grave monuments – steles.

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Old-believer’s Chapel in Bondariski was built between 1920 and 1930.
The chapel is located close to the highway, but is barely visible through the crowns of old trees that grow around it. The volume composition of the building is very simple: a single volume with a gable roof, a rectangular bell tower that “grows” from the roof and is covered with four-sided tent. The building is preserved in the authentic form.

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Roman Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist in Viski was built in period 1908 – 1925. It is significant national landmark, one of the few sacral buildings in Daugavpils region that was built of abated stones and belongs to one-tower basilica crucifix church type.

History of the church:
First church in Viski was built in 1621 from oaken logs in honour of St. John the Baptist. It was built by landlords Andrejs and Elizabete Mols outside Viski village, in cemetery. In 1625 was established Viski parish. This church serviced to the parish for 94 years. In 1715 at the expenses of Heronims and Katrina Mols the church was demolished and rebuilt near to Viski, on peninsula of the lake. This church serviced to the parish for 224 years. It was 410m³ big. Old Viski Church attracted the attention of professor Vipers and doctor A.Krumins as original landmark. The church was built of oaken logs, it had stone corner posts. From the outside it was planked horizontally. In front of the church there was a portico with 4 massive stone columns. Windows were only above the entrance door and in pediment. The church had almost rectangle form. Choral rooms (gallery) were propped on thin wooden columns all around the church with widening near the entrance and altar. In 1891 on Easter upon Viski Church fell misfortune. As in choral rooms assembled a lot of people, thin and rotten columns, on which the rooms were propped, broke off. Ceiling with gallery caved in into the hall (in church). It took several lives and several people were mangled up for ever. In 1894 caved in ceiling was repaired and instead of broken columns were built stone columns. After this incident in 2 August 1907 curia of archbishop of Mogilev in Peterpils asked the governor to give the permission to build new stone church in Viski.
In 1908 dean B.Verzbickis started to build new church not in place of the old one, but outside the village of Viski. The church was built according to construction plan of Liepaja architect Standmanis. It is built of abated stones and belongs to one-tower basilica crucifix church type. In period from 1908 until 1915 dean B.Verzbickis at the expenses of parish members and Leticija Mole built a church and roofed it. Unfinished remained interior works.
In 1918 the dean of Viski parish became J.Livcans. He did interior works in the church: laid a floor, ceiling, did plastering, put temporary altar and in 1925 started to hold services in new stone church. In 1930 were finished main interior works. In 1935 he purchased bell at weight 673kg. In 1936 the dean of Viski became A.Skromans. In his time were purchased two girandoles, the flag of Virgin Mary, installed electricity, was built priest’s house and company of Riga Kolbe set up new organ. Organ was consecrated by professor A.Novickis. A sermon was delivered by dean of Augškalne A.Misjuns. In 27 June 1939 Višķi Church was stricken by lightning. The fire was extinguished by Viski and Daugavpils firefighters. The tile roof of the church was destroyed and inner furnishing and equipment were damaged. The church suffered damages at the rate of about 20 000 lats. In period from 1966 till 1972 dean E.Klavcans repaired the tower and its roof, purchased new benches, put windows, moved temporary altar aside and arranged there the altar of St. John, tided away big altar and coloured the church. In the right side of the church there was black oaken altar that was transported from Dubna.
In 1937 old wooden church in Viski was demolished. It was transported to Valmiera and was put up anew. So the church was rebuilt for third time. Now there are made essential changes. In place of the old church there still are cellars where is located crypt of landlords Mols. Near the church were buried deans F.Sandra and J.Kesmins. Near the new stone church was buried dean S.Litaunieks. Some say that in Viski had lived four priests. It’s a pity that they do not mention time and year of this fact. Once dean B.Verzbickis narrated that in Middle Ages in Viski there was bishop’s church. This fact is confirmed by a document (1310) which says that in Latgale there had been its own diocese and it was situated between Kalupe and Viski. It’s name in documents is mentioned as “epixopatus Versowensis” and diocese “Columniensis”. According to the document some think that bishop’s cathedral was located in Viski.

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Built and consecrated in 1879. The church’s altar is simple, without ornamentation. Especially expressive is church gates built in Novgorod style and several icons in following ancient styles: Novgorod, Moscow, and others.

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The chapel is build in 1907 as a compact blockhouse covered with boards. The gable roof, originally, had an iron cover with rebate joints, but now is covered with modern metal roofing with a small profile, what has significantly changed the look of the church. The eastern part of the building is a little bit narrowed, but the roof is made in the uniform design. The main volume of the church is close to the square and this is a rare thing for Daugavpils district. The walls and ceiling in the interior are covered with narrow wooden slats; the floor is made of wood. There are choruses above the porch. There is a cross in a wooden carved golden icon case in the center of an iconostasis. Initially, the iconostasis was conceived as three-storey, but the shelves for the icons remain empty from the WWI. The parishioners bring the icons to the church only during divine services.

History of the chapel:
Old Believer community in Rubenishki was founded in 1889. The first chapel was built here in the late 19th century, and at its place, the present church was erected in 1907. During WWI the icons from the church were evacuated to Russia and the building was used as a military hospital (according to other sources – as a stable). After the war the church was cleaned and the floors were replaced. In 1927, there was a big fire, but thanks to the efforts of the villagers, the chapel was restored. In the 70s of the 20th century, the divine services stopped and the building stood abandoned. Then the divine services were resumed after 20 years. Since 2003, the chapel has been repaired with the help of renewed parish. Local residents and Old Believer communities of Latvia help the church.

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The Orthodox churches of Malinova parish repeatedly perceived a difficult destiny. The first church in Malinova was built in 1836, but during the Second World War the church was burnt down, and a Culture House was built on its place.
The current St. Ilija Orthodox Church in Malinova is a rebuilt priest’s house. Thanks to donations, a bell tower was built here, and in 2008 three new bells were bought.
In 2010, the Culture House, located on the site of the former church, was burned down. After the tragic event, the today’s Augsdaugava District Council decided to give the building to the Orthodox Church. Now on this site new Orthodox Church is being restored.

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The building of the Elernes Church was constructed in 1650 by Heinrich Tienen. Until 1761 it served the needs of the Lutheran Church, but later the Lutherans exchanged with Catholics with the Sīkele Church. The architecture of the church, in both volume and details, is in correspondence with other churches that were built in the territory of the Courland Duchy of that time.

History of the Church:
In Elerne (Elksni) initially there was Lutheran parish. Building of its wooden church is connected with the recess of duke of Kurzeme – Godthartt Kettler – in 1567. In 1636 the church was reconstructed. Present-day stone church was built in 1650 on initiative of local landlord Heinrich von Thünen. Catholic parish here was established in 18th century. In 1732 Elerne came in possession of Mayor General Georg Christoph von Witten. After Witten changed his faith to Catholic one, the last Lutheran dean served here until 1742, but in 1761 building of Elerne church was completely delivered in charge of the parish. Lutheran parish moved to Muravki (Sikele), where in 1819 in place of old wooden church was built a new one – Sikele Lutheran church.
In 1761 in general visitation of Catholic churches there is no mentioning about the consecration of Elerne church (there is no mentioning about it in 1800 too). According to general visitation it appears that in the church there was an altar inherited from Lutherans. Altar was a two-storeyed coloured and gilded construction, decorated with woodcuts. It had two mouldings (“The Last Supper” and “Annunciation of Mary”) and figurines of apostles Peter and Paul, made of wood. There also is mentioned a pulpit that is decorated with sculptures, light blue confessional and a masters’ chair of the same colour, as well as organ gallery with painting on railing slats (until 1761 the organ, that was built in 1648, already experienced repairs). At that time on church’s windows and walls there also were depicted coats of arms. In 1800 it was stated that almost all the furnishing have preserved its original appearance, including old broken-down organ and two side altars. Fragments of woodcarving of the second half of 17th century (altar’s side décor of acanthi ornament, image of the Christ, figurine of pelican) in the church could be observed still in 1930s; nowadays these fragments are lost.
The building of Elerne church preserved its original appearance without essential changes and rebuilding. In 18th century in the church there was built the sacristy, but in 1911 – tower’s steeple. In 1968 there were partly rebuilt vaulted cellars that initially served as a sepulcher.
The church is one-nave hall type building. In the plan to almost square parish room there is attached polygonal, wide completion, but in front of the facade there is tetragonal tower’s nave. Church’s outwalls are divided by line of counterforts, their verticality are stressed by pointed vault window openings. The building has span roof, three-storeyed roof is crested by slender steeple.
Church’s parish room and antechamber are covered by gorgeous stellar vaults with cradling, which are supported by consoles with grape bunch and cone motifs created in their mouldings. In organ gallery, that is built above the entrance, there is neo-gothic style organ (six registers, one manual), made in the end of 19th century in Daugavpils (master – Schultz).
Gallery’s railing has baluster with woodcarving made in the middle of 17th century in mannerism style and slat frames. Organ has several fragments of antique (17th century) décor (ornaments, angels’ heads). The church has three wooden altars. Central altar is made in neo-gothic style, side altars located near triumphal arch – in neo-renaissance style. One side altar has woodcarving of the middle of 17th century – relief of the image of “Annunciation of Mary”, next to it there was the relief of “The Last Supper” that nowadays is kept in the museum of Rundale palace. Small bay type wooden pulpit (19th century) is decorated with applicative ornaments typical to Historicism period. On St.George’s altar made in 1878 there was the painting with the image of St.George (this example of local artisanal painting of 19th century now is kept in the museum of Rundale palace). Silvered and gilded monstrance was presented to the church by Julijs Savickis in 1849; among the inventory of the church there are silver goblets forged by K.Volkov in 1891 and 1892. There also are remained tin candlesticks made in baroque style and tin reliquary made in 18th century. In the church there were two chasubles sewed in second half of 19th century, but two crucifixes represent local artisanal wood-carvers’ work traditions of turn of 18th and 19th centuries. Pieces of works of the end of 19th century – two processional floats and two chandeliers – are made in neo-style.
Elerne Catholic church is important landmark baroque period. Its peculiarity is flexible forms of naves of sacral buildings typical to Kurzeme, and sustained and powerful use of gothic traditions. Fragments of furnishings testify about local woodcarving’s heritage of mannerism and baroque periods.

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Its building was started in 18 September 1932 under guidance of dean M.Voitekunas. World War II stopped the project. In Soviet times there was established entertainment place. Its sacral significance the church regained in 1980s, but completed and consecrated it was in 30 August 1992.

History of the Church:
Near the border of Belarus there is Feldkopas cemetery. In 1874 at the expenses of Karlis Ravics there was built wooden church. The church had 1m high stone foundation that may be seen after the church burnt down. It was devoted to St. Stanislaus and it had his painting on big altar. On one side altar there was the painting of Jesus’ Heart, on the other – the Virgin’s Care. The last painting was saved from fire and passed for keeping to Pāvils Sobolevskis. Now the painting is placed in Demene Church at the right side of the altar.
Feldhofa Church around its garden had 52m long, 40m wide and 1m high stone rampart-fence. It still exists. On the left side from the garden there was Feldhofa cemetery. On the right side there was priest’s house, household buildings and an apple-garden. None of the buildings have remained till nowadays. Near the church in 1900 a parish was established. From 1911 till 1918 here lived dean Juris Martinaitis. The closest station was Drisviati. In time of World War I the church burnt down. The landlord gave timber to parish members for the building of new church. Prepared materials were brought to the burnt church. In front of it was built plank shed where the services were conducted. After the war, when the border of Poland was determined, Feldhofa was situated near the very border in disadvantageous place for many parish members. Therefore dean M.Voitekunas started to establish parish in Demene, 8km from Feldhofa. Here landlord Ptichko presented to the church 3 hectares of his land. Here from Feldholda were brought prepared timber, although the part of parish members objected against it. In Feldhofa left plank shed (temporary church) was abandoned, it wasn’t renovated and soon it collapsed. Now Feldhofa is overgrown with bushes.
In 1928 in Demene was built a cattle-shed, a cellar and a house. In one part of the house was established chapel where the services were conducted. Old Demene church (chapel) was wooden building that owing to care of local inhabitants have remained till nowadays. Present time church (chapel) was built by dean Z.Naglis when he attended parish from Laucesa. The building of Demene church is 16m long, 9m wide and 3m high. It is divided with wooden wall in two parts: in one part that is 11m long and 9m wide there is the church, in the second part (behind the wall) there is the flat of the dean. The foundation is 1m high and is made of concrete. The roof is made of galvanized plate-tin and coloured in 1976. The entrance in the church is in front part of the building, but the entrance in dean’s flat is from the side. Ceiling and floor are wooden. Big altar was brought from Belarus church and it doesn’t have any paintings. Tabernacle is full of woodcarvings. On the left there is the altar. It was brought from Feldhofa. On the right there is only a table and candles. On both sides of the presbytery there are small sacristies. The interior of the building is illuminated by six windows on the sides and two windows in back/front of the church. In the dean’s flat there are two rooms and a kitchen. Around the church there is wire netting fence.
In 18 September 1932 dean M.Voitekunas in Demene started to build new stone church (26m long, 17m wide and 12m high). Its foundation was made of abated stone. In right corner of foundation there is inscripted the year of its building. The church was made of cement bricks and of bricks found in German trenches of World War I. Its building materials were not too expensive. Part of parish members separated, didn’t support building works and went to Silene church. The walls of the church were already built, but there was no roof yet. According the drafts in Latvia Central History Archive the church was planned as Neo-Gothic and very high building with light belfry in its centre. Lancet-arched windows and small gazeboes in the corners of the roof would stress its lightness, volatility and aspiration to reach God’s throne even more. Unfortunately World War II was started and initiated works remained unfinished. Dean M.Voitekunas died in 1944 and was buried near the presbytery of the unfinished church. When the War was over, representatives of Soviet system’s governments decided built walls of the church to use for building of a club. The place meant for prayers turned into the place for holiday activities where the movies were shown and discotheques, ceremonial meetings, socialistic competitions, celebrations in honour of winners were organized. Architectonic plan of the church was violated: in walls there were immured silicate bricks, in the place of the sacristy was established boiler-house, the building from all sides was “girded” with stacks of firewood, the roof was covered with slate plates. In the end of 1980s the church was returned to the parish. In 1992 renovating works were finished, and in 30 August 1992 bishop of Liepaja diocese Janis Bulis consecrated the new building of church in honour of Blessed Jesus’ Heart.
In the parish there worked deans Pekss, Shikur-Kalvani, J.Lapkovskis, Z.Naglis, P.Rudzits, J.Karkle, K.Vitanis, A.Madelans.

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Catholic church in Ambeļi displays typical use of local traditions of wood-building of 18th-19th centuries in sacral architecture, its structure represents work of professional painting and sculpture experts of baroque period.
First reference about the church in Ambeļi have remained from 1782, when Alberts Sholuha, the provincial of Dominican Order, during his visit to Aglona commanded to take care of the church (initially Ambeļi parish was administrated by Dominican monks). The church was built on landed property of Z.Plater and it was used as a chapel and for parish’s services. In 1888 wooden building was reconstructed. From the entrance side it became longer. After World War I it became the regular church of the parish. Building of the new stone church, started in 1937, was not realized. In 1969 during complete overhaul in old wooden church there was changed the decoration of internal walls.
Small wooden building has asymmetric layout – rectangle nave is completed by polygonal apse with attached sacristy from one side. In facade the eave separates the pediment, above which, on span roof, there is a small tower. The church was designed as one-nave hall type building. Its wooden ceiling is made gradually, with coving. Above the entrance there is built a gallery (in place of organ there is a harmonium) on two wooden bearings. Church’s inner walls are planked with sheets of plywood, but the presbytery is separated by railing with turned wooden balusters.
In Ambeļi church there are preserved several art monuments. The important example of Latgalian baroque woodcarving is altar’s retable made in 18th century. It was made as plastically expanded oval frame for altar painting’s niche using architectonical, ornamental and sculptural elements. Impressive xylograph of leaves of rich, „pimply” acanthi has a lot of in common with the altars of other baroque style Latgalian churches, thus indicating the existence of local Latgalian woodcarving workshop in the end of 17th and in first half of 18th century. The most antique stage of Latgalian painting’s heritage is convincingly described in numerous paintings created by anonymous professional painters: “St.John of Nepomuk”, “St.Francis Xavier”, “St.Ignatius Loyola” (2nd half of 18th century), “Golgotha” (end of 18th century). Part of craft products (bottom part of tin candlestick, censer, wooden chair) and paintings (including “The Virgin of Aušra Gate” (beginning of 19th century) and “Golgotha”) are kept in the museum of Rundāle palace.

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There is a brick chapel (2m x 1.5m x 2m) in Jaunborne  with galvanized plate-tin roof, that is built on a boulder. Proportions of the visible part of the boulder is 3.6m x 2.5m x 0.9m. The chapel is a stone post with a niche, in which there is the permanent helper’s of the Virgin Mary’s permanent assistant painting in a wooden frame. On the frame there is an inscription in Polish: on 15th October 1907. Further there is an appeal to the Virgin Mary in order she could give good health to others. Under the niche there is a tin plaque with writing in Polish language: “Matko Boska Nìeustajacej Pomocy Mòdl sìę za Nami” (Under Your Sanctuary).

There is a story about the building of the chapel:  “A farmer in 1907 in broad daylight was attacked by villains. They wanted to kill him, but the farmer was lucky enough to escape. The villains in anger darted to catch him. The farmer got tired and fell near a big stone. He knew that the villains were just about to catch him and started to pray: “Under Your Sanctuary”. The villains didn’t notice him and continued to run, because they still saw the running farmer. The farmer in reward for the escape built this chapel in honour of the Virgin Mary.”

Another story says that the chapel was built by the landowner Savicka from Jaunborne in memory of her husband who disappeared during the Polish uprising in the end of the 19th century.  In 1975 a big tree fell down near the chapel. The tree did not damaged the chapel. Bioenergetics and geodesy experts (I.Vīks) inspected the crucifix and established that the foundation stone is located in a point of intersection of vigorous underground water. Considering this fact and also the fact that around the boulder there are places rich with springs, and several hundred meters from the crucifix spurts vigorous spring (near the Jaunborne Church), may be put forward a hypothesis that here had been ancient sacred place. Similarly to other places in Latvia, in order to eradicate paganism in such sacred places often were located symbols of Christianity – crosses, crucifixes, chapels, sometimes even churches were built.

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The building of Blessed Jesus’ Heart Roman Catholic Church in Liksna was finished in 1913. It was built in Neo-Gothic style. Its silhouette is the most important landscape dominant of Daugava valley in environs of Kosa Lake.

History of the church:
The history of Liksna Church has closely related with the activities of order of the Jesuits. When in 1621 the Swedes captured Riga they expelled the Jesuits. Bertulis Zyberk, who had properties in Ilukste, Dviete, Pilskalne, Dunava, Rubeni, Bebrene, Svente, Liksna, Nicgale and Kirupe, provided them shelter. Here, on both banks of Daugava, they did “re-Catholisation” works. In Liksna for a long time was located Jesuits’ mission that initially was subordinated to Ilukste residence, but later – to Daugavpils. Starting with 1635 Jesuits’ activities in properties of Zyberks became more active because in Ilukste haddied the last Lutheran pastor. Jan, son of count Zyberk, restored Ilukste Church to Catholics, but its care was trusted to Jesuits. King of Poland Wladyslaw IV confirmed its belonging to Catholics for ever and ever. In 1771 – 1772 in list of members of order of the Jesuits in Lithuanian province was mentioned that especially active in Liksna was father Mikelis Butovics. He had acted there for 17 years. When in 1783 was built Mogilev archdiocese, its first archbishop S.Siestzencevics in Liksna established Daugavpils (Lejas) deanery residence. Thereby in 1789 activities of the Jesuits in Liksna were over and its trusteeship was taken by temporal pastors. Some of Liksna deans were very famous and prominent. From 1826 till 1856 in Liksna lived canon Tomasz Kossakowski, the publisher of a number of books in Latvian. Later his work was continued by dean Tomass Kopecs. Especially prominent in Liksna was dean (later archbishop) A.Springovics (1905 – 1918).
First church in Liksna was built in 1748 in the yard of Liksna manor. It was built by Ludingshauzens-Volfs, the owners of the castle. It is unknown what materials were used for its building. The church didn’t survive till nowadays.
First church of Loksna parish was built of bricks in 1798 at the expenses of count Plater-Zyberk. It was consecrated by bishop Valerians Kamionka in 1819 in honour of the Holy Family. To judge from old photographs the church was quite big, it had two gazeboes, and was built in Baroque style. When this church was built the church in the yard of the castle was renamed to chapel.
In period from 1909 till 1913 deal (later archbishop) A.Springovics in Liksna built new stone church. In its facade there was inscribed the year of its building – “1912”. The church was brick Neo-Gothic style building and it was built nearer to the highway Riga – Daugavpils than the previous church. After the building was finished the old stone church was demolished and of its materials was built big two-storey pastorate house. The church was built at the expenses of parish members and landlords. In World War I the charge was damaged from artillery fire. In 15 October 1915 Liksna Church was fired by German light artillery for the first time. The damage was insignificant. In December it was fired already by the heavy artillery. Six shots that caught on the church did great damage: the wall was penetrated in three spots and the vault was broken in. In 9 February 1916 the church was fired by 8 inch artillery. A part of the presbytery and a gazebo were damaged, side walls were cracked. After the war in 20s the church was repaired.

Description of the church:
The church is a red brick building. Bricks were bought in Poland. The roof and the gazeboes were covered with galvanized plate-tin. Liksna Church is a 30m long and 17m wide Neo-Gothic building with tiled floor. On both sides of the entrance there were 2 symmetric gazeboes, the third one was small and built to retain architectonic style, and was situated above the presbytery. On gazeboes there were 3 bells: 1 – 609kg, 2 – 124kg, 3 – 62kg. Above the front doors there was big window, behind which was seen the statue of Jesus’ Heart. The floor in the church is made of cement tiles, and its ceiling – of stone vaults that were propped on 5 pairs of pillars. The walls are plastered up with lime but in junctions of edges there were left red bricks (i.e. created so-called cross vault). In the church there were 3 oaken Gothic style altars, oaken ambo and pictures of the Way of the Cross in plaster frames. On big altar there was the statue of Jesus’ Heart and paintings of the Saints on its sides. Liksna Church was also devoted to Blessed Jesus’ Heart. On the right side there was altar with the painting of St. Anthony, on the left side there was the altar of St. Asizes Franciska. On the sides, near the presbytery there were plaster statues of St.Anthony and St. Theresia. The presbytery was separated from the church by God table. On both sides of the presbytery there were big sacristies. On the left side there were doors, but on the right – Our Lady of Lourdes chapel with altar. On each side of the church there were 5 big windows (not stained-glass). Near the presbytery there were smaller windows that’s why there was a little bit dark. There were spacious choral rooms with big organ that was purchased in the time of J.Kalniss. The organ had very beautiful sounding. The church had all the necessary liturgical inventory. Around the church there was spacious garden. Around the garden there was high red brick fence built by dean J.Kalniss. In the garden was buried dean Pavils Vaiculonis (1867 – 1929). In memory of the demolished church in its place there was built stone chapel (approximately 1.5km from the new church). Now it is in very poor condition. Last time Liksna Church was coloured in 1964 with oil-colours, its ceiling was whitened. In the church there is electricity, but there is no heating. Only the presbytery is heated.
As time passed it appeared that bricks used for walls of the church were of low quality. They started to crumble, that’s why dean J.Kalniss in 1939 started to take them out gradually and exchanged them for new bricks. It was hard work, but he changed at least 60.000 bricks. As dean J.Kalniss lived in Liksna under 20 years, archbishop A.Springovics once sympathetically evaluated his work and said: “You and me have built Liksna Church”.

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Recreation area “Sventes Rasa” offers you a great and relaxing time in picturesque place in the Southeast corner of Latvia, on the shore of the lake Svente.

Lake Svente is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in Latvia. The lake is rich in bays and its three islands form a botanical reserve with broadleaf-spruce forest and rare species of plants.

Sunset here has a huge value. As an exciting cinema on the huge open-air widescreen, where purple, violet, pink, yellow and other shades of heavenly shades along with cloud silhouettes change every minute.

Beach Tags are required

You can rent:

• Water bicycles (quadruple)
• Windsurfing
• Windsurfing with an instructor
• SUP boards
• Boats
• Table + barbeque
• Sauna

Pets are forbidden!

Book in advance!

Open for the summer season.

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The trail is located in Laucese parish of Daugavpils region 10 minutes drive from Daugavpils and 1.5 km from the guest house called “Pie vecā kalēja” that is situated at the road Daugavpils – Demene. The creating of this trail began with the oldest oak tree in the parish. There are two elms near this oak tree that create a unique monument of nature with other oaks. The trail meanders along the very well-conditioned elm wood and crosses 4 bridges over the ravine and creek. Legends says that once there was a hunting lodge of Count Engelhardt. Very impressive forests grew here 200 years ago. Another legend says that here is hidden chest with the light that sometimes surprises travelers.

Preliminary reservation required!

Entry fee:
Donations

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Varis Vilcāns a woodcarver and blacksmith, who calls himself craftsman of weird things. During the visit to his workshop, it is possible to observe woodcarving process, participate in forging and shoot with a bow and crossbow.

Preliminary reservation required!

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Going from Viski to Ambeli, not far away from Moscow (Maskovska) Orthodox Church, on the left side of the road, there are Orthodox and Old Believer’s (mixed) cemeteries, where it is possible to observe an interesting, perhaps, the only Latvian tombstone that is called “penis”. Entering the cemetery gate, moving a dozen steps forward, on the right side, there is a gray granite monument in the form of a phallus. There is a story about its origin. A wife had imposed it to her unfaithful husband. The generation that can tell you about this unusual gravestone has already been dead for a long time. However, the study of the monument was tackled by Professor of Latvian University Janina Kursite, who together with experts decoded the barely visible inscription on the granite base. The discovery was unexpected and surprising: “devica” (virgin) is buried there and the years of her life (1864-1884) are given too.

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One of the regional Old Believers culture effects are ancient cemeteries, where it is possible to observe the unique tombstones – steles that bring the code of Old Believers life philosophy. Each ancient monument is an unfulfilled dream of someone, happy and maybe not so happy human life and the witness of life story. Near Old Believer’s prayer house, there are two Old Believer’s cemeteries, where it is possible to observe the steles of the 19th century.

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The white concrete cross with a black granite plate and the inscription in Latvian “The cemetery of Polish soldiers fallen for Latvian independence in 1919-1920” is erected here.

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It is located near the former manor  Sengeida (1870, now private property), it was built by count Eugene von Engelhart. Following Engelhart family members are buried here: Robert von Engelhart (1798-1840), Eugene von Engelhart (1829-1879), Robert von Engelhart (1872-1874), Julia von Engelhart (1863-1909), Jorgen von Engelhart (1901 – 1903), Wilhelm von Engelhart (1862 – 1901) and Alexander von Engelhart (1869 – 1928). The graves, located on a hill between the trees, are surrounded by a beautiful metal fence and four meters tall oak cross with the inscription “Be strong in your faith” are erected in the center of the cemetery, a linden alley is also made. The cemetery gates are decorated with a plate with a poem in German. In 1996-1997 cemetery was restored and cleaned up by old baron’s grandson, Baron Sigvard von Engelhart.

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The cemetery started at the beginning of the 19th century. It was used also by Somerset (now Aglona) Jews. Jews began to settle around Viski at the end of the 18th century. At the beginning of WWI, many of them went to the depth of Russia; other then managed to emigrate to the United States and Israel, but some returned to Viski. In 1921 four class Jewish school was opened in Viski (teaching was in Hebrew). In the 30s of the 20th century, Jews in Viski accounted for 56% (423 people) of the total population. In 1935, 50 of 58 craft and commercial businessmen in Viski were Jews.

This cemetery is surrounded by a stone fence. The oldest gravestones are stone steles at the cemetery that date back to the 50-90s of the 19th century. Most of the monuments are well preserved, but there are steles that have partially ingrown into the ground and are cracked and broken. There are small houses at the cemetery, they are usually built at famous people (such as rabbin) graves. The houses are made of concrete. Steles are made mainly of gray and black stone. There are also some black granite steles, which date back to the 20th century. The design of steles is very simple, with no luxury decoration. The most common decorations: a dove or two doves facing each other – the symbol of the Jewish people and women name; one or two deers – the symbol of innocence; a lion (the emblem of Judah tribe); grapes – the symbol of fruitful nature and Jewish people, Star of David; flower motifs; hands, which are the sign of Cohen; as well as Jewish National candlestick – menorah. However, mainly, there is just an inscription in the design of the steles. It takes the entire surface on some steles. The dates given according to Jewish calendar.

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The well-known ornithologist and a children’s writer K. Grigulis (1884 – 1972) was born in Stumpuri of Saliena parish where he spent his childhood. The stone was erected in 1994 and there is a symbol of wisdom – the owl on the stone.

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There is a memorial sign on the side of Slutišķi village, which testifies that there was a Slutišķis medieval graveyard (15th-17th centuries). During the archaeological excavations, there were found 175 burial grounds.

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There are three white crosses in memory of the Old Vecpils Cemetery that was destroyed in 1986 because of the planned construction of the Daugavpils HES.

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The memorial sign is located in Liksna Trails, in the beginning of Emilia Plater path. Emilia Plater (1806 Vilnius – 1831 Kapchiamiestis) is Poland and Lithuanian national hero, who lived in Liksna estate since 1815. She led a patriot combat unit in Latgale and Lithuania, preparing to attack Daugavpils fortress; she died relatively early during the time of Polish uprising in the winter of 1831.

The countess lived in Liksna from 1815 till 1829. The girl did not make a secret of her patriotic feelings. She joined her people fearlessly also in the Polish rebellion or in the time of uprising, which happened in 1830-1831. On March 23 in 1830 she took part in the divine service in Duset (Lithuania) church and then called the compatriots to the fight “with a sword and loose hair”. After the crash of Polish and Tsar’s army at Pristaine, the countess joined Polish fighters section, and there, Emilia Plater set up her own section. Later, the courageous countess was nominated as a commander of the 1st company of the 25th Lithuania’s Infantry Regiment.

In the memories of Polish fighters, you can read that Emilia Plater was a great military leader. Unfortunately, the Polish fighters suffered a defeat near Vilnius on July 6 in 1830 and Emilia Plater had to escape to Warsaw. In that period, the countess became seriously ill and died in the same year on December 31 at the age of 25.

Poles assimilated Emilia Plater in fiction and art to the famous French Jeanne D’Arc. In Poland, streets, railway stations, schools etc. are named after her name. A portrait of Emilia Plater made by artist Sandis Greishkalns is stored in the library of Liksna parish.

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The monument to 5 fallen national partisans is erected at Misteli cemetery. It was designed by the sculptor I. Folkmanis.

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Art metal design, decorative products, demonstration skills. Visitors are invited to try their hand at stamping coins, or souvenir. Newlyweds are invited!

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There are two Polish soldiers’ burial places at the Catholic cemetery in Laucese. The Polish soldiers who have fallen on September 27 and 28 in 1919 and January 1920 in the battles for Griva bridge are buried there. In one of these there are three grave hills with white concrete crosses and one big white concrete cross with a black granite plate on which there is an inscription in Polish “Graves of Polish soldiers who fell for Latvian independence in 1919-1920”. The place of the second burial place, that is located at the edge of the cemetery, was destroyed after WWII. In 1995 this place was put to rights. The project was prepared by architect Vanda Baulina, but the sculptural works were made by artist Romuald Gibovskis. The territory was made even and two graves were renewed: one of them is  20×1,5 m and sixteen grave hills (1,5 x1,5 m). A bright sandstone boulder (1×1,5×1,5 m) with the inscription: “For Polish legionaries, who fell in 1919 – 1920, from the folk of the banks of the river Daugava” is erected at the edge of the burial places.  A 3,5 m high steel cross was placed behind it. Concrete heights with black granite plates with names of the fallen are placed in the same line with the memorial stones. The monument of Corporal Mechislav Mansjor (killed in 1920), that is made of gray granite and has a soldier’s photo, remained between grave hills.

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The former owner of Birkineli estate Vidzeme landmarshal Hamilkar von Felkerzam is buried at the Lutheran cemetery in Birkineli. There is a plate with the inscription near his grave: “The value of the human is defined not by the rights, that he inherits, but by the duties, that he undertakes”.

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Gustav Bazeners (1827 – 22.05.1883) was the teacher of German and Latin. The name of this modest teacher of the German school in Griva can not be found in any encyclopedia, but his student Janis Pliekshan became the famous Latvian poet Janis Rainis. The favorite teacher of the teenager opened a whole new world to him – from Homer to Goethe, and who knows what would have happened if they had not met each other.

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In Catholic cemetery in Viski, near the entrance on the left side, there is a mass grave of 20 soldiers of the I and V regiment of the I Legion team. Here soldiers of the Polish Army who fell in the battle near Viski and Dubna are buried. In 1995 the sandstone monument with the inscription in Polish: “For the Polish Legionaries who died for Latvia in 1920″ was erected near the burial place with the support of the Embassy of Poland. There is a 3,5 m high wooden cross with metal finishing behind it.

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“Saules puke”(1999) is one of four sculptures of the sculptor Vilnis Titans. The author created four granite sculptures and placed them in the most remote locations in Latvia within the project “Latvia in the Sun’s Sign”. These sculptures was devoted to the 80th anniversary of the proclamation of Latvia’s independence. “Saules puķe” or “Sun Flower” denotes the farthest southern point.

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At the time of Nazi German occupation from 1941 till 1945, about 85 000 Jews were murdered in Latvia, 35 000 of them were killed in Daugavpils and several thousand of them were also killed in its surroundings. The mass murder place is also located in Viski area, at Klana Viski, where Jews from Viski and Dagda were killed. On the left side of the road, where in 1941 the Jews were shot, in 2001 the memorial place was built and a small granite stone (the author Aivars Regza) was placed.

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The memorial stone is set in Vasilova, on the left side of the highway Daugavpils-Rezekne, at the place where Vasilova halfmanor is located. The father of Janis Rainis Krisjanis Pliekshan rented the halfmanor in Vasilova since 1881.

Vasiļova, located somewhere on the edge of the then-Warsaw-Petersburg highway, was about 25 km from Daugavpils, as written by Raina’s elder sister, Līze Pliekšāne, “was heavily lowered, small”. In 1883 Krišjānis Pliekšāns began to rent Jasmuiza and Vasiļov left under control of his wife.

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Father of Rainis  Krishjanis Pliekshan rented Randene from 1869 till 1972.

House was destroyed during the Second World War. Now at the place of the former house you can see the memorial sign telling that Rainis lived in Randene. Sculptor I. Dobichin is the author of the memorial sign.

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It was opened in 2006. The memorial stones were found in the countryside of Medupe, 18 km from Kalupe. Three stone composition made by architect Gertruda Rasnacha, marks in details the Revolution of 1905, the wars and the experienced pain of export, as well as people’s experienced sufferings in Kalupe.

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It is located in the village of Viski near lake Dotka at the place of the old (1715) wooden church. The church cemetery is situated beside it.

Mols (von der Mohl) family roots are found in Prussia in the 15th century. Family appeared in Latvia in the 17th century. The first Catholic Church was built in Viski thanks to Andrea and Elizabeth Mol in 1621.

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The Patmali cemetery is surrounded by a stone fence. The chapel was built without any nails about 200 years ago, the fence is even older. Entering the gates you can see the Count Plater- Zyberk graves. There you can also find Michael Zyberk and his wife Adelaide graves, as well as his family’s final resting places, tombstones with inscriptions in the old Polish language.

The most impressive monument is the grave of the landlord Michael Plater (1777-1863). It is made up of a 6m high column, which has a solid monolithic stone slab at the base. Birth tombstones and grave crosses are very well preserved.

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Oskar Svenson (1822-1884) was a priest in Egyptian (Vilkumiesta) Lutheran parish church; he was the first teacher of Janis Pliekshan (Rainis). The graves of the priest O. Svenson and his family were found by Austra Zunga (she lives in Medumi) at Egyptian Lutheran cemetery.

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In the surroundings of Markova Mound, there is a 1.6 km long Markova cognitive trail. There are several objects located on this trail: Markova Cemetery, Markova Mound, Putānu Streem, Putānu Streem Boulder etc. There are a number of protected plant species, such as snowdrop windflowers and rolling hen-and-chicks.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge

Excursion offer “The Secrets of Augsdaugava” 
Naujenes novadpētniecības muzejs, +371 65471321, naujenesmuzejs@inbox.lv, www.naujenesmuzejs.lv
Preliminary reservation is obligatory!

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”.
Guide services – 7.00 €  excursion for a group from 1 to 35 persons.

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Dinaburg trail goes up and down to finally reach steep bank of the river Daugava, where Naujene (Vecpils) mound is located. By the way, this place is considered to be the founding site of Daugavpils. The ruins of the castle have been preserved, with the unique open-air model of the Dinaburg Castle. The object is located in the territory of Daugavas Loki Nature Park.

Trail offers a great opportunity to experience the knights’ environment – bridges,  springs, steep slopes, narrow paths, a true medieval spirit and magnificent nature. At the foot of the castle mound has been an old settlement. On the way back, after crossing the bridge, you will reach the place of the former Vecpils Cemetery marked by three white crosses.

The trail is about 1 km long. In 2016, the trail was restored. Upon climbing up and down (the total length of the stairs is over 300 meters!), You can take a breath and take a meal at the recreation area “Knights’ glade”, located near by.

Excursion offer “The Stone Dinaburg Livonian Order’s Castle”
Naujenes novadpētniecības muzejs, +371 65471321, naujenesmuzejs@inbox.lv, www.naujenesmuzejs.lv
Preliminary reservation is obligatory!

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.
Guide services – 7.00 € for a group from 1 to 35 persons

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The Naujene mound, which was inhabited since the 8th century, is considered the founding site of Daugavpils. In 1275, instead of the Naujene mound, the castle of Dinaburg, as a border fortress facing Lithuania, was built by the Livonian Orden Master Ernest von Racenburg. Almost immediately after the castle was built, it was surrounded by Lithuanian troops under the leadership of King Troiden. Nowadays only ruins of the castle remained, but there is a stone model of this castle on the mound, and historical exposition about the castle in Naujene local history museum.

Nearby is located Dinaburg Nature Trail and recreation area “Knights’ glade”.

Excursion offer “The Stone Dinaburg Livonian Order’s Castle”
Naujenes novadpētniecības muzejs, +371 65471321, naujenesmuzejs@inbox.lv, www.naujenesmuzejs.lv
Preliminary reservation is obligatory!

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.
Guide services – 7.00 € for a group from 1 to 35 persons

From the history of Dinaburg Castle:

In 1275, the Dinaburg castle was built by Ernest von Raceburg, the Livonian Order Master, in the place of Naujene castle mound as a border fortress to protect against Lithuania. As soon as the castle was built it was surrounded by the Lithuanian army under the leadership of king Troiden.

In the 13th century the area inhabited by Latgalians included also the current south-east part of Latgale, which was the property of the Order since 1264. Regions inhabited by the Selonians on the west bank of the River Daugava stretched to Naujene, which was on the right bank of the River Daugava that was mentioned in the document dated 1259 as the farthest eastern point of the border of the Selonians’ land.  One of the three main crossing points of the Daugava River was near Naujene (the other two were near Selpils and Dole Island) which were used by Lithuanians in order to invade Vidzeme. In this place (near the Lithuanian border) the Livonian Order decided to build the Dinaburg castle. The evidence to this can be found in the travel description written by Chillebert de Lannua in 1413, “From Koknese I went up the Libyan river (Daugava) with my sledge and reached a castle owned by the Livonian masters and called Daugavpils, which is the last castle they own on the Lithuanian border.”

In 1888, the first excavations were conducted under the guidance of V. Neimans. As a result, they discovered ancient foundations of the castle covered by 7-9 feet of ruins and rubbish. From 1811 to 1829 castle ruins were intensively used as a building material, by the time of the first excavations the upper part of the castle wall had already been destroyed – the stones and bricks had been broken out and taken to Daugavpils for the construction of the new fortress. Despite the brutal destructions, enough information was obtained to get a clear picture about the size and the layout of the castle.

The castle building was approximately 59 m long at its largest place and approximately 26 m wide at its widest place (on the west). Very large bricks (dimensions 30 x 14 x 10 cm), stones (mainly for foundations) and limestone plates were used as a construction material. The entrance to the Dinaburg castle was on the east through 2 front castles which were surrounded by stone walls and ditches. They could be easily dammed up and filled with water and thus it was harder to force them. The castle could be entered by crossing a drawbridge through the gate protected by special towers. The oldest (eastern) wing of the castle was likely built when Ernest von Raceburg was the Livonian Order Master, while the northern and the western wings were likely built around 1313 when Master Gerhard von Jorke restored the castle and Master Gosvin von Herike built 4 towers in 1347. Only two tower places – in the SE and SW corners – were certainly found during excavations. It might also be possible that the Master Gosvin von Herike also fortified front castles with tower-like constructions. Three cellar rooms were located in the eastern wing of the castle. The entrance building of the castle comprised a castle chapel, which had been accurately built with colourful profiled vault ribs, door and window edges, on the second floor. The hall of chapter of priests was in the northern wing, next to the chapel, while the meeting and dining room was in the western. The western wing on the Daugava side also comprised living rooms of the manager. There were kitchens, stores, heated rooms and dormitory of the Order brothers (bedrooms) under the mentioned rooms. A wide courtyard was in the southern part of the castle. All buildings of the castle were surrounded by a thick masonry wall, near which in the southern part was either a narrow wooden building or a breastwork support building.

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“Silene” is a nature park situated in Augsdaugava region, in Demene and Skrudaliena municipalities near to the border of Belarus. It was founded in 1977 as a complex nature reserve and has an area of 37.9km2. In the Park there are 24 lakes, including parts of Lake Riču (5.9km2), Lake Sitas (0.4km2) and Lake Sila (2.6km2). There are also several small marshes, biggest from which is Glusonka marsh – a nature reserve that has an area of 142.3ha. Pine stands as well as pine-fir and fir-deciduous forests predominante in the nature park. European pond turtle, fire-bellied toad, great crested newt and forest dormouse can be found in the marshes and lakes of the park. Black storks, black kites and lesser spotted eagles nest in park’s forests. In the Southern part of the Park, in Belarus boarder area, there is nature reserve “Ilgas” and Daugavpils University’s Study and Research Centre ”Ilgas”.

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The recreation site “Višķezers” is located on the former mound, on the shore of Viski Lake.

The recreation place offers:

• accommodation in well-equipped cabins;
• shed (100 m²) for celebrations;
• sauna with banquet hall (for 15 people) and accommodation on the 2nd floor;
• tent places;
• fireplaces;
• beach;
• sports ground;
• trampoline;
• fishing;
• boat and catamaran rental;
• bike rental;
• serving tables and catering for celebration.

About 12 km from the recreation place there is Aglona, where you can visit the Aglona Basilica, Bread Museum and other interesting places!

A cycling route “Around the Lake Lukna” is located approximately 200m from the recreation area.

Within 2.5 km there is a resting place “Ūdensrozes” and the Ostrova bird watching tower.

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The recreation site “Viiskezers” is located on the former mound, on the shore of Viski Lake.

The recreation place offers:

• accomodation in well-equipped cabins;
• shed (100 m²) for celebrations;
• sauna with banquet hall (for 15 people) and accommodation on the 2nd floor;
• tent places;
• fireplaces;
• beach;
• sports ground;
• trampoline;
• fishing;
• boat and catamaran rental;
• spring water;
• bike rental;
• serving tables for celebration.

About 12 km from the recreation place there is Aglona, where you can visit the Aglona Basilica, Bread Museum and other interesting places!

A cycling route “Around the Lake Lukna” is located approximately 200m from the recreation area.

Within 2.5 km there is a resting place “Ūdensrozes” and the Ostrova bird watching tower.

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A great place for celebrations, comfortable for family holidays and other events! The  Recreation Complex “Saulesstari” offers unforgettable relaxation and active recreation possibilities in a beautiful place on the shore of Medumi Lake. There is a unique historical atmosphere and centuries-old spirit with an ancient interior that will delight the guests, allowing to enjoy a wonderful mood.

The recreation complex has everything you need for a nice relaxation both in summer and in winter. There is a well-equipped hunter’s house, charming park, a summer recreation complex with a summer kitchen, a beach with a pier, a wooden arbour with a grill, picnic and tent places, sports grounds and a children’s playground, trails for romantic walks and bike rides.

Recreation complex offers tables and serving food for various events – both for business meetings and private parties. You can choose a menu and our hostess will choose the banquet menu to each client in accordance with the budget and personal preferences.

Recreation complex “Saulesstari” offers:

• the opportunity to spend an unforgettable time in a closed, well-maintained area with a fabulous view;
• well-maintained manor with antique interior and beautiful views of the lake from the balcony, banquet hall (up to 30 people) and accommodation (up to 10 people);
• rest in a hunter house with fireplace for celebrations and accommodation for groups of up to 10 people;
• sauna complex with a kitchen on the shore of Lake Medumi (can be rented separately);
• boats, kayaks, cutters, catamarans and water motorcycles rental;
• fishing;
• specially designed picnic areas;
• camping area with a bonfire place;
• active recreation at the lake with a sports ground;
• shooting (organized for not less than 3 persons);
• tennis, badminton, volleyball;
• trampoline entertainment;
• bicycle rental, as well as trails for romantic walks and cycling;
• kitchen for cooking;
• preparing or ordering a delicious meal according to your wishes;
• parking lot;
• TV, WC, shower;
• the opportunity to organize events (weddings, anniversaries, baptisms) for renting the entire leisure complex “Saulesstari”.

Service prices are available here.

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On the shore of the lake in Medumi village is located a well-equipped recreation place and a beach.

Medumi Park is located near.

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Lake Medumi is a picturesque lake located in Medumi parish, Augsdaugava district. The average depth is 6.9 meters, but the maximum depth is 25.3 meters.

Lake is included in the Protected Landscape Area “Augšzeme” and in Nature Park “Medumu Ezeraine”. The lake contains four islands that are part of the Botanical Reserve of Medumi Lake islands.

On the territory of Medumi village, on the shore of Lake Medumi there is a well-equipped recreation place and a beach (GPS: 55.7828276, 26.3467143)

Fishing in Medumi Lake requires a license!

Licenses are issued by organization “Medumu līcis” (tel. 29416122, e-mail: medumu_ezers@inbox.lv). The license can be purchased electronically here. Regulations of licence fishing in lake Medumi in Latvian language are available here.

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The overage depth of the lake is 6,7 m, but the maximum depth – 20,8 m. The mirror square area is 360.1 ha.

Pikes, perches, eels, breams, pike perches, silver breams, roaches and burbots dwell here. Let: pike perches one-summers – 39.2 thousand (2001), breams one-summers – 39 thousand (2003), tenches one-summers – 39 thousand (2003); pikes one-summers – 5 thousand (2005). Ducks and swans have their nests here. Rushes, horsetails, cattails, sedges and spatter docks grow on the lake banks. There is a small island in the southern part of the lake.

Recreational possibilities – licensed fishing. Daily license – 1.50 EUR, month license – 4.50 EUR. Licensed fishing organizer: Viski Parish Council.

Ostrova and Maskovska mounds are located near the lake.

On the bank of lake Viski, there is a recreation place “Viskezers” that offers recreational facilities: accommodation, sauna, camping and campfire sites, well-maintained beach, boat, catamaran and bike rental.

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Boat station and pier “Višķi uz viļņa” is located near the Višķi Technical School on the shore of lake Lukna. The are available boats, water bikes and aquaskipper for rent.

Opening hours: 

• Monday: closed
• Tuesday – Friday:  17:00 – 21:00
• Saturday, Sunday:  12:00 – 20:00

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The average depth of the lake is 2,4 m, but the maximum depth – 6,1 m. The mirror square area is 409.0 ha.

Ducks and swans have their nests here. The lake has one island. Rushes, horsetails, cattails, sweet flags and spatter docks grow on the lake banks. The pikes, tenches, breams, roaches, perches, eels and chubs dwell here. Let: silver one-summers – 400 kg (2000), 40 thousand (2004); pike larvae – 200 thousand (2000), tenches one-summers – 17.5 thousand (2002); pikes one-summers – 16 thousand (2004); pikes one-years – 5 thousand ( 2006).

Recreational possibilities – licensed fishing. Daily license – 1.50 EUR, month license – 4.50 EUR. Licensed fishing organizer: Viski Parish Council.

According to the project INTERREG IIIA “Cycling Development in the Baltic Country of Lakes”, on the beaches of the lake near the Viski technical school (GPS: 56.064032, 26.771286000000032) and in Ostrova (GPS: 56.0598558, 26.8116675) recreation places with different equipment (tables, benches, bowers, swings, toilets and garbage bins) were installed.

The bicycle route “Around the lake Lukna”, marked with wooden signs (association “Latvian lakes” ER, 2009) is developed within the mentioned project.

Boat station and pier „Višķi uz viļņa” is located near the Višķi Technical School (GPS: 56.064032, 26.771286000000032). The are available boats, water bikes, catamarans and aquaskipper for rent.

On the lake bank near Viski-Aglona road, between Lukna and Boltaru lake, near to recreation place, an observation tower is built. From this tower You can see a view on Viski surrounding lakes.

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It is located on the left bank of the river Daugava near Geitviniski. It is a 36.5 m (in other sources – 42 m) high cliff from Quaternary rock. There is a sandstone of the Upper Devonian on the foot, in the 30s of the 20th century, here, in sandstones, used to be a cave. The slope reaches 38 degrees. The structure is mostly gravel, pebbles and boulders with moraine layers. There is a deepening behind the cliff, where underwater of the river Daugava flows and threatens to wash the cliff. Beautiful view of peculiar narrowing of the ancient valley of Daugava -“Daugava gates” can be seen from the scarp.

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There is a sightseeing tower on the narrow peninsula between lakes Lukna, Viski and Boltaru, from which these lakes and the hilly landscape of the surroundings can be seen.

Next to the Lake Lukna there is a beach.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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Slutiski Scarp is the biggest outcrop of Quaternary rock on the territory of Latvia which is located in Daugava river’s valley. Its height is 40.9 m, length – 400 m and slope angle is 38 degrees.

In 1925, up to 6 m high outcrop of Middle Devonian white sandstone with several water-eroded caves were seen at the bottom of the scarp. Now Daugava doesn’t bathe its banks in so intensive way, landslides hide the sandstone, and the scarp is becoming overgrown with bushes.

Looking at the Slutiski Scarp it is difficult to imagine that in 1930 – 1940s its slope had no vegetation at all – only sand, gravel and rocks. That was a consequence of destructive inundation. Due to high water level, pieces of ice and heavy river flow the lower part of the slope was bathed what caused heavy landslides and plant cover was fully destroyed.

Numerous rare and protected plant species are can be found in adjoined pinewood: Ajuga piramidalis L. (bugle), Pulsatilla patens (L.) Mill. (eastern pasqueflower), Pulsatilla pratensis (L.)Mill., Polypodium vulgare L., Chimaphila umbellata (L.) W.P.C.Barton, Orthilia secunda (L.)House syn. Pyrola secunda L.; Ramischia secunda (L.)Garcke (sidebells wintergreen).

An outstanding view on Daugava river valley – Daugavsargi bend, opens from the Slutiski Scarp.

There is a recreation place on the Slutiski Scarp.

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The picturesque lake Rici is located on the border between Latvia, Lithuania and Belarus and it is included into the Silene Nature Park. The lake has many trenches and it is rather deep (39,7 m deep) and not very polluted since it is located in an isolated area. The east side of the lake extends into a long peninsula, which is covered with forests. The lake bed and shores are sandy and with stones. The lake bed is covered with dunes and sapropel. Riču lake is one of 10 Latvian deepest lakes and one of the largest according to the volume of water (124.4 mil. km ²). The lake has 9 islands, but they are located in the territory of Belarus.

Tourists believe that the great value of the Silene Nature Park is Perkule Scarp – a steep shore of  Ricu Lake – is an inspiring creation of nature. The scarp gives a view of a large deep lake with unbelievably transparent water, which is practically untouched by human activities. Several species of protected plants are encountered on the lakeshores that create a fabulous landscape: the black stork, the black kite and the lesser spotted eagle.

There is a recreation place set up for visitors. There are also opportunities for mushroom and berry picking in the area.

Lake Rici is located in the border zone! Visitors are required to take a personal identification document and a special pass.

Legend “The devil’s bridge over Rici Lake”

Once in the night time the devil wanted to cross Rici lake. He could not walk round it because there were a lot of villages on the shores of the lake. The devil had either to drag himself along the lake or to make a bridge. As soon as the devil stepped into the lake, he was already completely wet. So the devil had no other choices but to make a bridge. The devil immediately started to bring stones. The bridge was built till the middle of the lake. The devil could not continue to work because a cock, unfortunately, started to sign. The devil immediately disappeared. The bridge remained till nowadays, but it has subsided into the ground and it is not possible to see it. The place of the bridge can be seen because at this place was a seed and this seed place was overgrown with reeds.

LFK 935, 32297; Julia Churishka Ilukste, Demene, 1938.

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Daugava, while creating the valley in section between Krāslava and Naujene, has created a unique nature site – “Gate of River Daugava”. This is peculiar narrowing of the ancient valley of Daugava down the Slutiski village, the narrowest section of the valley between the scarp of bank in Slutiski and the scarp of bank in Ververi. In the process of meandering, creating the flow in accordance with the features of the relief, on both banks have been created 42-43m high scarps, although the valley of the river is only 0.5-0.6km wide. “Gate of River Daugava” is included in “Green Pearls of Latvia”, top 10 of the most important landscape features of the Republic of Latvia.

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Egļu klans is the highest point in the Augšzeme highlands – it stands 220 metres above sea level and around 45 above the ground.

There is well-equipt reacreation place  on the top of the hill.

Recreation place is freely available every day.

Attention – the former sightseeing tower on the top of hill is demolished and not available!

Eglukalns ski resort also is located on the hill.

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Pogulanka (Saliena) River is the longest (24 km) tributary of the left bank of the Daugava in the Daugava Loki Nature Park. Many kinds of plants and animals were discovered in the valley, and a number of natural monuments and cultural-historical objects were found here. This is a typical river of the Augszeme upland, which was once considered to be rich in trout and, probably, salmon.

The bridge across the Pogulanka (Saliena) River was built at the end of 19th century from split and shaped boulders. Its arc height is 5,2 m, length – 5,5 m, but width – 4,6 m.  The bridge is local architectural and engineering monument.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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This is the second largest boulder in Daugavpils district. Boulder is located on the right bank of the Pogulanka (Saliena) River. This is natural monument of national importance.

Proportions of the boulder (1991):

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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Medumi Lake’s (Medumu ezeraine) Nature Park area is 1375 ha. The highest points of Nature Park are: Medumu hill, Samanku hill, Skirstenu hill and Ziedinu hill. Among the glacial hills, there are several lakes in the hollows, the largest of which are Medumi lake, Ilga lake, Samankas lake, Skirstenu lake and others. Lakes along with mixed and broad-leaved forests and fields, forms a unique, magnificent natural landscape.

Islands of Medumu lake is a botanical reserve, which has been protected since 1987. The total area of the reserve (4 islands) is 4 hectares. Vegetation of islands are dominated by linden, aspen and birch

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It is located in Ilūkste upland, 137m above sea level, in Augsdaugava region Svente municipality (Southern part of Medumi and Kalkūne municipalities). Svente Lake is included in the list of protected landscapes of Augšzeme, and with surrounding territory it  is included in Nature Park.

Svente Lake is one of the 10 deepest lakes in Latvia (its storage volume is also big – 57.3mil m3). The Lake has eminent landscape and many bays. Its 3 islands (in Southern part of the Lake) are botanical reserves. Banks of the Lake are high. Out of the SE part there flows Pakrāce, the tributary of Laucesa. Because of the small basin of the Lake water in it fully renews once in 16-17 years. In the lake there live pikes, perches, roaches, breams, tenches, whitefishes, carps.

Recreation at the lake is provided by:

• Guest house “Saules nams” – accommodation, sauna, campfire and barbecue area, football and volleyball courts, children playground, beach, boat rental, fishing.
• Holiday house “Pakrasti” – accommodation, sauna, camping site, boat rental, sports court, children’s playground, fishing.
• Recreation place “Sventes Rasa” – accommodation, campfire area, rent of water bicycles, windsurfing equipment and boats, fishing.

Anita Liepa (Kumeļa gadi.“Karogs” Nr. 6, 1982):

“In the place where the Lake now is, in former times there was a plain and meadows, but on the other side of the plain, there, behind Antuzeviču peninsula, on small hill – grove of sacrifice. Beneath the mightiest oak there was an altar made of stones. Ancient Selonians made sacrifices to Pērkons (Thunder, the god of thunder). But then the knights intruded in Selonia. In the middle of the plain they built a church with high turrets. Then the Selonians were ordered to go to the church and prohibited to make sacrifices to Pērkons. Then Pērkons got into a rage and on a fine Sunday, when the church was full of people, he threw down a lake upon the plain. Then the valley was under the water, only an island and grove of sacrifice were visible above the water. The Selonians got scared; they embarked the boats and floated to the island to make a sacrifice to Pērkons. The lake then was called Svente. The crosses of the church could be seen above the water for some time. Now they cannot be seen. But the fishers say that their fishing nets are catching on the crosses, if they occur in the place where the church once was. Also it is said that on Sundays, when the weather is fair, from the depth ringing bells, humming organ and singing churchgoers can be heard.”

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The sightseeing tower is located in Daugavas Loki Nature Park, on the left bank of the river. From the top of the new sightseeing tower (20 m) picturesque views of ancient Daugava River valley can be seen – forests, countryside, roads. The presence of the river itself, especially during the low water period, is badly noticeable as it has been hidden in the woods.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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If You dare to climb on the tower which is 21 meters high, a picturesque view on the Rozalishku  bend of Daugava river will definitely inspire You. Rozalishku bend was depicted on the banknote of 10 lats (LVL).

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

Vasargeliski Sightseeing Tower is included to excursion offer by 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”.

Guide services:
7.00 € – thematic excursion out of the museum, for 1 object/route

Preliminary reservation is obligatory! Phone nr. +371 65471321.

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Big boulder of Nicgale is the biggest known boulder in Latvia. It is situated deep in the forest, approximately 6km to the East of Nīcgale railway station, but it is easily reached due to arranged indicators and earthroad.  The stone is situated on the crossing of forest paths.

There are preserved stories narrating that on the flat surface of the stone there were located seats and a table. Kalupe, Līksna, Vārkava and other districts’ landlords gathered together around the stone to take a rest and to refresh themselves when they were hunting. V.Gavars, who in 1930s was a forester and being a young man he himself participated in landlords’ organized hunting as a beater, remembers local landlords’ doings connected with the hunting. Here were celebrated different holidays such as Līgo and, as older people narrate, on the surface of the stone was held dancing.

In 1938 A.Jotsons, a forester of Nīcgale Forestry, ordered a forest worker Lauskis to carve in stone 3 steps, and paid 5 lats for each. Still nowadays tourists set their feet on these steps.

Dimensions of the boulder (1991):

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

Tales and legends

A tale narrated by A.Smagars, the inhabitant of Līksna municipality

“Devils decided to obstruct Daugava. They found a huge stone and were bringing it to Daugava. Altogether there were 12 devils and they were bringing the stone all night long, but in the morning they heard a crowing cock, so they threw the stone into the marsh on the border of Nīcgaļa and Kalupa forests. Right there the stone lies till nowadays.”

A tale narrated by A.Vāverāns, the inhabitant of Nīcgale municipality

“In a forest in Latgale, in Kalupe municipality there was a huge stone, although in that region there are few stones. Once the devil was bringing the stone and wanted to throw it into Daugava in order to obstruct it. But the stone was too heavy and it fell out of his hands. The stone fell in Kolupe forest. There it may be seen nowadays.”

A tale narrated by E.Paukšs, the inhabitant of Līksna municipality

“Once the devil envied the fabulous and great flow of Daugava. He decided to put a stop to it, to fill up the river in the territory of Latvia. Somewhere in the North he filled his worn-out sieve with the stones and ran to Daugava. Not far from Daugava he noticed that all the stones had spilled, except the huge one which couldn’t fall out through the worn-out sieve. Then he in anger threw the huge stone out of the sieve. The stone had been fallen down in the Nīcgaļa marsh not far from Daugava. This stone to this very day lies in the same place, raised it humps and covered with moss.”

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Nature Park “Daugavas Loki” was created to preserve the unique natural complexes, natural, cultural and historical values and little transformed landscapes of the ancient valley of the Daugava on the site of Naujene to Kraslava. The bends of the ancient valley of the Daugava are considered to be the oldest geological formations in Latvia. The Nature Park “Daugavas Loki” as part of Augsdaugava protected landscapes area was recognized as the NATURA 2000 territory in 2004, but in 2011 this park was included in the Latvian National UNESCO World Heritage List.

The River Daugava is a structural axis for the Nature Park, forming a picturesque bends. There are picturesque landscapes from the banks of the river. Since ancient times the River Daugava was the main element of the development of this area – water trade route. Castles and villages were built on the banks of the river. An ancient but eternally young Daugava with its apparent calm watercourse had been conducting a titanic effort, for thousands years creating a unique valley that produces an unforgettable impression on each traveler.

The most characteristic peculiarity of Daugavas Loki nature its 8 meandres that stretches from Kraslava up to Naujene. The lenght of every meandre is about 4-6km, but the distance between them is only 2-3 km. Forests take up 38% of the whole park’s territory. Mainly it is a growth of nature park. On this score it is a one of the most valuable territories in Latvia. Mainly it is a growth of pine trees, fir trees and birch trees. Many area and peculiar species of plants can be seen in thw territory of nature park. On this score it is one of the most valuable territories in Latvia. Many protected species of birds are noted here. There are 23 known archaelogical monuments in the territory of the park including Vecpils and Markovas castle mounds, medieval settlement of Slutiski, Vasargeliski observation tower, Slutiski ethnographic village of old-believers etc.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

Excursion offers in Nature Park “Daugavas Loki”
Naujenes novadpētniecības muzejs, +371 65471321, naujenesmuzejs@inbox.lv, www.naujenesmuzejs.lv
Preliminary reservation is obligatory!

* “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.

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

Additional information:
The Nature Information Center is located in the Naujene Local History Museum (Naujene, Skolas iela 1)

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Manor was formed in the 19th Century for the Polish noblemen’s Mole family at the present centre of the village Viski. Mole family was owners of 18 manors with 4,000 hectares of land back then. The manor was burnt  in 1863 during the Polish rebellion and restored in 1878. After First World War it was destroyed for the second time.

Nowadays has remained only barn and a reorganized manor house (later – servants house) there Viski Agricultural College previously was located. Also free planning park with around 75 trees and shrub species has been preserved from the 19th Century.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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In 1999, a walking path was made by the inhabitants of Liksna village, every year this path is been extended. Everybody can see different creations made of stone, metal and wood while walking the path as well as find out that this path rode a horse Polish national hero – Emilia Plater, who used to live in Liksna in 19th century. Emilia because of her lifestyle and character was always compared to Joan of Arc. A portrait of Emilia Plater which was drawn by Sandijs Greiškalns is kept in a library of Liksna parish. In the park of Liksna manor a historic architectural monument – the chapel of Liksna manor, is located.

The park of Liksna manor is very popular among newlyweds. Thanks to LMT (mobile communication company) and a craftsman – Valērijs Konstantinovs, a new design object was put in the park in 2015 – “The Tree of Love”. Since then newlyweds can put a lock on it as a symbol of being unseparable during all their life.
Moreover, in Liksna village it is possible to get acquianted with village’s local history, visit inspiring church, enjoy different activities in the park and visit local craftsmen.

Entry fees:
Entrance to Liksna manor park is a paid service for tourist groups which includes guide services.

Available to visitors every day.

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The Svente walking trail is located several kilometers from Jaunsvente park, runs along Sventes lake. The network of walking paths with benches, rest and picnic places, gazebos, footbridges, viewing platforms and other infrastructure elements have been reconstructed on the landscaped trail. A parking for cars has been created.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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The skiing and snowboarding paradise of Augsdaugava District offers to have fun on three tracks: slalom, family and snowtubing, every winter. Slalom piste is made of two 400m long descents, some ski jumps are here, too; so this one it thought for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The beginners’ choice is a family piste – they won’t be afraid to get first skiing emotions on it because the descent is deliberate and instructors work here. Snowtubing track is an adventure without age limit, as well as on the slalom piste ski lifts work here, so you only have to enjoy breathtaking speed while descending from the hill. Ski resort offers equipment and quadricycle rental and various picnic places. If winter joys make you freeze – warm up with a cup of tea in a cafe of the ski resort.

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There is 3 ha large park of free planning with more than 14 different kinds of exotic trees and plants just in front of Chervonka castle. Nowadays the greenery is substantially augmented. In front of the palace there is a wide circle of grass, on the edge around the leaflets – flowers.Pebbles are planted near the road.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

Address: Cervonka, Vecsaliena parish, Daugavpils district (Červonka, Vecsalienas pagasts, Daugavpils novads)

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The park in Medumi is located near Medumi lake. In the park you can see a great variety of plantation – ashes, oaks, lindens, elms, scarlet dogberries, Daugava hawthorns, European spindles, balsam firs, European larches, Colorado sharp spruces etc.

Medumi Park is a popular place for relaxation – this is place for fishing and relaxation on the beach of Medumi lake, which is also available for people with reduced mobility. In the park is located 2 km long trail, which crosses the “Bridge of Love” and runs along the First World War trenches and the basement of the manor.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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Ambeli Park has a total area of 8.1 hectares. It is a free style parkland located in the natural basin. There are rare kinds of trees and bushes in the park. The pond occupies 0.4 ha and the western part of it is swampy.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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The Park was landscaped in a 19th Century in English style by the count Plater-Zyberk – he decide what kind of style the park should be. Area: 8,5 hectare, pond: 0,21 hectare.

21 tree and brush species are found in the territory of the park – both local and foreign. There are many ash, oak, lime, willow, elm, black alder and cherry trees.The pride of the park is the Big Oak-Tree. In the East is situated an avenue of trees, the rare “Moltke” (lime), are found infrequently in the parks of Latvia.

There are many historical buildings – part of the old manor and horse stables, were adapted for school needs in 1919. Nowadays there is a secondary school. Museum for the first awakening servants of Latvia – Skrinda brothers is located in one of the manor houses.

There is equipped recreation area in the park.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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Jezupova (Juzefova) Manor Park was built in the 19th century in Dutch style and until the end of the 19th century there was also a manor here. Nawadays only a small part of the park, which contains more than 100 different species of plants, has survived. Initial name of the Park was “Hofzumberg” that in translation from German language means “house on mountain (hill)”. In the end of the 18th century the Park was renamed to Jezupova Park. The manor house was built by the owner, B. Shahno, as a model of the castle seen in the vicinity of Paris. Currently, only the foundations of the manor house can be seen. The former baron  horse stables is the only building which survived to this day.

Majority of tree species in this park, like in other manor parks, are very special. The unique atmosphere of the Jezupova Park is made up of Swiss pine, Cork-barked elm and white poplar. The rare snail – Isognomostoma isognomostomos is found in the Park, and the surroundings are the only place in Latvia where this species lives. From Jezupova Park flows a spring, the water of which supposedly has healing property.

In Southeastern part of the Park there is 82cm long, 46cm wide and 10cm high grey boulder, on the flat surface of which there is carved cross. According to narration of the nanny of Bogdans Shahno, the last Count of the manor, a tragic incident of 1922 is connected with the cross stone. Two youths (manor’s maid and a stableman) were preparing for the wedding. But the old Count desired the maid and didn’t allow her to wed. The maid put on the wedding dress and jumped out of the window, thus putting an end to herself. The groom couldn’t undergo the death of his lass and hanged himself in the Park. Manor’s people in that place located a boulder and carved a cross in it.

Freely available to visitors every day.

Free of charge.

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Special well-equipped rest park is located in picturesque place on the bank of the Daugava River on the territory of Daugavas Loki Nature Park. It is possible to organize a wide range of activities in the park. There are children’s playgrounds, outdoor grills, tables, terraces, benches etc. Several tourist groups can visit the park at the same time. There are unique objects in the rest park that are constructed as a fortress. Tourists will be given the opportunity to learn about interesting and mysterious history of the creation of the park.

Opening hours:
Every day 10 am – 10 pm

Park entrance fee:
4 € per person
people with disabilities 2 €
children under 7 – free

Renting a pavilion:
first hour – €30
every subsequent hour – €10
the use of a charcoal grill and firewood is included in the price

Park visiting rules:
* The entrance to the park by car is NOT ALLOWED.
* Animals are NOT ALLOWED.
* Garbage leaving in the park is NOT ALLOWED.
* During closed events park visit is NOT ALLOWED.
* Every visitor has to keep the ticket until the end of a visit of the park.
ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE!

Address: “Nitisi-13”, Naujene parish, Daugavpils district (“Nitiši-13”, Naujenes pagasts, Daugavpils novads)

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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.

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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.

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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 taste traditional meal of Latgale “komas” and herbal tea, get acquainted with old crafts and spend time together with craftsmen. The biggest number of Daugavpils 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

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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

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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)

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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.

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