Kuldīga, Historic Hanseatic city in western Latvia.
Kuldīga is a city where the Venta and Alekšupīte rivers converge in western Latvia, roughly 150 kilometers from Riga in the Courland region. The town center features narrow cobblestone streets, Saint Catherine's Church dating to the 13th century, and the natural Venta waterfall stretching 240 meters across.
Founded in 1242 by the Livonian Order, the city received town rights in 1378, establishing it as a major trading center. It joined the Hanseatic League in 1368 and became an important hub for commerce between eastern and western Europe.
The Old Town layout and building styles reflect the urban design from the Duchy of Courland period, with narrow streets and merchant houses that shaped daily life for centuries. Residents and visitors still navigate these same passages and gather in the central spaces, keeping the medieval structure alive in everyday use.
Walking through the narrow Old Town streets is the best way to explore, as the compact layout makes it easy to navigate and see all main points of interest. The flat terrain and small size mean you can visit the church, bridge, and waterfall all in a single day.
Europe's longest brick bridge spans 164 meters across the Venta River and was built in 1874, making it an instant local landmark. This distinctive red structure shapes the city's identity and stands out to every visitor.
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