Sigulda Medieval Castle

Sigulda Medieval Castle is a ruined 13th-century castle complex in Sigulda in northern Latvia, notable as one of the region’s medieval Livonian Order sites. It sits on a rocky ridge above the Gauja River and is a landmark in the Gauja National Park area.

The site consists of low stone walls and the remains of a defensive tower that provide panoramic views over the Gauja valley and across Sigulda. Walks around the ruins take 20-40 minutes; the castle is frequently visited together with the adjacent New Castle and riverside attractions. Interpretive panels on site give basic information about the layout and remaining structures.

The castle was originally built by the Livonian Order in the 13th century for military and administrative control of the Gauja valley. Over centuries it was damaged and fell into ruin; the remains visible today are largely post-medieval ruins conserved for visitors.

The castle sits on a ridge above the Gauja River in Sigulda town, about 50 km northeast of Riga by road. The surrounding landscape is forested sandstone valley characteristic of Gauja National Park, with the town immediately below the site.

• Viewpoint: Best views are from the hilltops immediately around the ruins, which look over the Gauja River valley and the town of Sigulda.
• Combine with nearby sites: The ruined medieval tower and foundations are compact; combine a visit with the nearby 19th-century Sigulda New Castle and the cable car across the river for a fuller visit.