In Arendole, the manor house, park and Catholic church offer different ways to explore the history of the area: architecture, landscape and church history. Arendole Manor combines a manor house with a hundred-year-old park. It is also a practical place to stay: double and triple rooms are offered, with a country breakfast included. This lets you consider cultural attractions and your choice of accommodation together when planning your trip.
Manor House and Park
Arendole Manor’s manor house was built in the Historicist style and has been preserved since its last reconstruction in 1901. Its architectural history therefore reveals both the original style and a later phase of reconstruction. The complex also includes a hundred-year-old park covering 6.5 hectares. Several exotic tree and shrub species grow there. The park adds its own landscape dimension to the manor house’s architectural focus.
Church and Local History
The Catholic church in Arendole was consecrated in 1930 in honour of the Virgin Mary. Its history begins with a destroyed stone building on the grounds of Arendole Manor. It served as a carpenter’s workshop and was acquired for the needs of the congregation in 1926. The acquisition of the building and the church’s later consecration are two clearly dated milestones in its history. Those interested in the church’s origins can trace its development from 1926 to 1930.
Collections and Historical Themes
Arendole Manor houses the only authentic collection of furniture and furnishings from the manors of Latgale. Another exhibition presents a private collection focused on key historical events in Latgale. Its timeline spans the First World War in Latgale (1915–1918), the liberation of Latgale from the Bolsheviks (1919 and 1920), and the work of the border guard and police (1920–1940), followed by the resistance movement and deportations in 1941. It also covers the Second World War in Latgale (1941–1944) and resistance to the second Soviet occupation (1944–1991).
The collections have clearly distinct focuses: the furniture and furnishings collection looks at the region’s manors, while the historical exhibition sets political events in context over several decades. Together, they offer insights into domestic culture alongside a more extensive account of Latgale’s history.
Time by the Water and Manor Offerings
Arendole Manor is situated on the bank of the Dubna River and offers boat rentals. A traditional black sauna is also available. The manor house rooms and grounds can be used for events, celebrations and concerts. The manor’s dishes are prepared mainly with local and seasonal produce. Camping and picnic sites are also available. The options on site therefore vary, from accommodation and time by the water to events or a stay outdoors.
Plan Your Visit and Stay
Municipal visitor information dated 22 September 2021 states that advance registration is required to visit the park and manor house. Be sure to arrange your visit before travelling. As the black sauna’s availability may change, check in advance whether it will be available during your visit. You should also check whether double and triple rooms are available for your chosen dates.
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