Kuldīga Old Town in the Primeval Valley of the River Venta, Medieval historic center in Kuldīga Municipality, Latvia
Kuldīga Old Town is a historic center with numerous wooden buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries lining narrow cobblestone streets near the River Venta. The old district spans several blocks and displays traditional Baltic urban layout with preserved merchant houses and residential structures.
In the 13th century, the town emerged as a major administrative center for the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, controlling regional trade routes. This role as a trading hub shaped the urban layout and attracted merchants whose houses later defined the town's character.
The town displays craft traditions in its streets, where local artisans practice woodcarving and textile making. Visitors can observe these handmade techniques at market days and see how they remain woven into daily life here.
The old town can be explored on foot since most historic streets are narrow and difficult for cars to navigate. Visitors will find the tourism information center at the central square, which provides orientation and suggestions for the best route through the old streets.
The town sits next to Europe's widest waterfall, Ventas Rumba, stretching approximately 250 meters across the River Venta. Few visitors notice that this waterfall is directly visible from the town center and once powered local mill industries.
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