6. Sigulda - Cesis

Sigulda and Cesis are old Latvian cities; their history is closely connected with trade roads along the Gauja River.

Itinerary of excursion:

At 8:00 am – departure from Riga. Our road is in direction of Incukalns, and then we turn to village Ragana (‘Witch’ – translated in English). We will hear about historical ties between Ragana and Turaida. Sightseeing in Turaida will begin with Turaida Castle - this well-known historic place is connected with mediaeval Livonia.
Mediaeval castles in Livonia were centers of economics, culture and fortification. You will hear about the history of Turaida, and the way how this complex is used nowadays. We will visit the grave of Turaida Rose and hear a beautiful love story about it. Later you will see Sculpture Park. River Gauja and its historic use and significance.
Afterwards visitation of Gutmans Cave, and more about history of Sigulda. After this excursion we will have passage to Cesis.
Visitation of the Cesis castle - it is the most impressive and best-preserved set of castle
ruins in Latvia. Cesis castle were one of the biggest fortresses of Livonian Order. You will also see and hear about life of Cesis of this day. Then passage to Araisi. We will visit one of the most unique ethnographic museums – Lake Tree Castle.
We will return late in the evening.