Bauska Castle

Bauska Castle stands on a long narrow spit of land where the Memele and Musa rivers join to form the Lielupe. It is two castles in one: the ruined medieval stronghold of the Livonian Order at the point, and the restored later residence of the Dukes of Courland behind it.

History

In ancient times a Semigallian fortress stood on the hill, and the Livonian Order raised the first stone buildings between 1438 and 1450, under Master Heidenreich Vinke von Overberg, to control the trade route from Lithuania to Riga. After the order collapsed in 1562 the castle passed to Gotthard Kettler, first Duke of Courland, and became one of the main ducal residences (Wikipedia, Bauska Castle).

What to look for

• The river spit setting - the castle on its narrow tongue of land between two rivers.
• The Order ruins - the medieval towers and walls at the tip.
• The ducal residence - restored Renaissance rooms of the Courland dukes.
• The tower view - a climb for a view over the river junction and forests.

When to go

Snow-free months; the setting is loveliest in summer green or autumn colour. Combine it easily with Rundale Palace nearby.

Before you go

It is smaller and less grand than Rundale, and works best as a pairing with the palace rather than a destination on its own. The two halves, ruin and restored residence, feel quite different. The riverside grounds are pleasant for a short walk.

Nearby

Rundale Palace is a short drive west; the Lithuanian border and the road to Vilnius run just south.

Key facts