Jaunpils Castle, Medieval fortress in Jaunpils, Latvia.
Jaunpils Castle is a medieval stone fortress with a three-story structure and corner towers that rises at the center of the village. The building is surrounded by a park and landscaped gardens that frame the structure to this day.
The fortress was founded in 1301 by Gotfried von Roga of the Livonian Order, marking an early German presence in the region. Later, the von der Recke family took control and managed the estate for nearly 350 years.
The castle hosts traditional celebrations and performances where visitors can experience medieval-style feasts in themed dining halls. These spaces maintain the feeling of past centuries and serve as venues for events that connect people to local heritage.
The castle operates as a hotel with rooms decorated in medieval style and offers guided tours through its spaces. Visitors should be prepared for an experience strongly focused on the medieval theme evident in both the guest rooms and common areas.
Swedish king Charles IX visited the castle and honored Baron von der Recke with valuable gifts after a sword fight as a sign of his respect. This rare visit by a Nordic monarch highlights the strategic and cultural importance of the site during the early modern period.
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