The castle, church and park give Lielstraupe a distinct cultural focus. The town’s history spans from the Romanesque castle to a Renaissance tombstone. A park and pond also shape the surroundings; native and exotic tree species grow in the park. Allow 1.5 hours for a guided castle tour and book in advance. Tours are offered in Latvian and other languages. Check the arrangements before your trip.

Castle, Church and Art History

Lielstraupe Castle was built in the Romanesque style at the end of the 13th century, together with the church. The ensemble of the castle and Straupe Evangelical Lutheran Church is considered a unique site in Latvia for its architectural and artistic value spanning the 14th to 20th centuries. The castle’s construction period and the ensemble’s broader timeframe thus represent two different historical perspectives. The tombstone of Georg von Rosen, dating from 1590, is considered one of the outstanding works of Renaissance sculpture in Latvia. The free-standing bell tower was built in 1848 and stands 100 metres from the church. The barons’ gravestones can still be seen in the churchyard.

Park and Historical Traces

Native and exotic tree species grow in the park at Lielstraupe Castle, including snow jasmine and balsam fir. The site also has a history of use: a medieval cemetery is located in the park, where burials took place until 1775. The diversity of trees and the history of the cemetery are distinct aspects of the castle’s surroundings.

Festival and When to Visit

The Lielstraupe Castle Festival takes place every year in late August. The programme includes medieval and Baroque music, traditional crafts, a celebration featuring forgotten flavours, and a special castle marzipan cake. The festival offers a different focus from a visit centred on architecture and art. If you are planning a trip specifically for the festival, check the details of the next edition before making plans.

Historical Context: Straupe

The historic town of Straupe existed for 300 years. According to historians, it covered an area of about 2 hectares, coinciding with the castle grounds, enclosed by walls and surrounded by a pond. This history adds a distinct historical perspective to the castle and church ensemble: the estimated area and fortifications of the town at the time.

A hiking option in Straupe is a path about 3 kilometres long that crosses the Brasla River. It offers a specific alternative for travellers considering a walk alongside cultural activities. Its length is approximate; the route description also includes crossing the river.

Discover more destinations: Auciems, Straupe, Plācis, Stalbe.

Return to the regional travel overview: Pārgaujas Novads.