7. Aluksne

Aluksne – it is one of most interesting cities of Latvia. Its history is closely connected with Russia, which border is near the city.

Itinerary of excursion:

We depart from Riga in the morning. We are taking a road through countryside, which had a great importance in the past, because there was terrestrial traffic of Livonia. Traffic united Russian country – Novgorod and Pleskava – with Hanseatic cities in West Europe. Road tended also through Riga in those days.
Sigulda and Cesis are old trade places. Rauna, Gaujiena and Smiltene are settling grounds of ancient Latvians. Gulbene is the city, which history started in 1340. In those days there were many strategic properties, which were governed by Bishop of Riga.
Sightseeing in Gulbene is very fascinating, because its houses and buildings are one of the most interesting buildings in Latvia, because they characterize construction ways of native people. You will see Castle of Shvanenburg and hear about its role during the war of Livonia. Old and New Gulbene. Narrow-gauge railway from Gulbene to Aluksne is the only one of this kind in Latvia.
Passage to the city Aluksne. Aluksne is the final city in the east of Vidzeme. City had strategic role for advanced post of Livonian Order. You will see the ruins of Livonian Order Castle. Marienburg – the new castle of Aluksne. The North War had great impact on Aluksne. You will see Temple Hill, oak of priest Ernst Glück – eyewitness of historic events of 16th to 18th century, the Bible Museum, and water mill. You will have some free time in Aluksne.
At 19:00 pm – departure to Riga.
Arrival in Riga at 23:00 pm.