Zvārtava Manor, Tudor manor estate in Gaujiena Parish, Latvia
Zvārtava Manor is an estate featuring stone walls, two floors, and a steep gable roof built in Tudor style in the Vidzeme region of northern Latvia. The grounds include several auxiliary buildings such as a gardener's house, barn, windmill, and stables.
The manor originated as Adsel-Schwarzhof in 1405 and passed through several Baltic noble families over the centuries. The von Delvig family held it in the 18th century before it later came under the care of the von Fersen family.
Since 1970, the property has functioned as an international art center run by the Latvian Artists Union. Artists from around the world use the grounds for exhibitions and creative work.
The manor is located in Gaujiena Parish within the Vidzeme region and is reached via local roads through the countryside. Visitors should plan to dress appropriately for exploring the outdoor grounds and historic buildings, especially considering Latvia's variable weather conditions.
An engraved stone above the main threshold bears a Latin inscription reading 'Hic habitat Felicitas, nihil mali intret', meaning 'Happiness lives here, nothing bad comes in'. This inscription reveals the wishes and hopes the former residents held for their home.
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