Riekstu mound

Riekstu mound is an archaeological site in Cēsis that reveals remnants of fortifications and settlement structures from medieval times. The location rises above the surrounding area, allowing visitors to see the physical layout of how it was organized.

The mound began as a settlement of the Vendi tribe in ancient times. By the early medieval period, arrival of the Livonian Brothers brought change to the region and altered the course of local settlement patterns.

The mound reflects how ancient Baltic communities used natural elevations for settlement and defense, making strategic use of the landscape. Today it stands as a visible reminder of the way these people organized their living spaces.

The site is accessible from Cēsis town center by following marked pathways and informational signs placed throughout. From the elevated position, visitors get a clear overview of the surrounding landscape and how the settlement sat within it.

The mound sits close to other medieval structures, together forming a larger historical complex that reveals how defense systems were arranged across the landscape. This proximity shows how separate sites worked as part of a broader strategy.