10. Valley of River Daugava.

Settling grounds, which have been establishing over the centuries by the river Daugava (an old trade road), nowadays witness about the identity of Latvian nation and its religious and cultural traditions. Some of them are still alive.

Itinerary of excursion:

We depart from Riga in the morning. The road will lead us along the coast of the river Daugava – already in 9th to 10th century there were significant traffic to trade centres of ancient Livs. Salaspils – an old populated area, where lived ancient Livs. Then you will see Ikskile, place by the river Daugava, where Bishop Albert built the first fortress of Livonian Order in 11th century. It was Catholic Church and the castle.
Lielvarde and Lielvardes Castle. This place is connected with legends and history of ancient Livs. You will visit the ruins of Lielvardes Castle and museum of A.Pumpurs. Free time in Lielvarde. After excursion we will have a passage to Koknese, where you will see ruins of Koknese Castle. In Jekabpils there is the distal castle of the Valley of Daugava River. We will have a sightseeing in the city Krustpils and acquaintance with its history and culture.
Return to Riga.