Embūte hillfort

Embūte hillfort is an archaeological site with visible stone wall remains and medieval defensive structures built on a slope above the Lanka River. The visible foundations show different construction phases from various periods of fortification development.

The original wooden fortress fell to Dietrich von Grüningen in 1244, after which the Livonian Order built a stone fortress in 1265. The structure later passed between different rulers before becoming a manor house in the 16th century.

The location reveals how early settlers chose defensible positions near river crossings for control and protection. The elevated setting shows how defensive needs shaped where communities built their strongholds.

The site sits on steep terrain and requires sturdy footwear and some physical effort to explore properly. Local tourism offices in the area can provide current information about access conditions and any available guided visits.

The site reveals clear layers of multiple fortification phases showing different military construction methods stacked on top of each other. These visible layers offer insight into how defensive techniques and building approaches changed across centuries.