5 reasons to visit Koknese Medieval Castle Ruins

The Medieval Ruins of Koknese Castle are a place where history meets a modern experience, picturesque landscapes and exciting activities. A walk among the ancient castle walls, a historical exhibition, virtual reality, a boat trip and even a medieval torture chamber – every visitor can find an engaging way to discover the history of Koknese.

Here are five reasons why the Medieval Ruins of Koknese Castle are worth visiting on your next trip.

1. Step into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages

The Medieval Ruins of Koknese Castle are a great place to travel back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Walking among the ancient castle walls, visitors can learn about the history of the castle and imagine what it looked like and what life was like there several centuries ago.

2. Discover history in a modern way

Alongside the ancient walls, visitors can explore a historical exhibition and digital information stands at the visitor centre. They offer an engaging and modern way to discover the history of Koknese Castle, making the experience interesting for both adults and children.

After exploring the ruins, visitors can also purchase souvenirs and take home a small memento of their experience in Koknese.

3. See the castle ruins from a different perspective

Have you ever seen the Medieval Ruins of Koknese Castle from the Daugava or the Pērse River? A boat trip offers the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding scenery and the beauty of the historic castle ruins from a completely different perspective.

It is a great way to combine peaceful relaxation, beautiful views and a journey through history in one experience.

Boats “Sēlis” and “Vīgante” operate from the boat dock at the castle ruins (+371 28490667), as does “Daugava 16” (+371 26434520).

4. Try VR and take a look into the castle's past

History does not only live in textbooks – it can also become interactive. By scanning a QR code with a smartphone, visitors can explore a historical model of the castle and experience a virtual reality (VR) feature.

This makes it easier to imagine what the castle may have looked like in its heyday and makes discovering history even more engaging.

5. For the brave – a medieval torture chamber

If you would like to see something truly unusual, be sure to visit the medieval torture chamber at the castle. This unique attraction offers a glimpse into one of the harsher aspects of medieval life and provides an opportunity to learn more about punishment methods used at the time.

It is certainly one of those places that visitors are unlikely to forget.

Practical information

Entrance fees:

• Adults – EUR 2.50
• Pensioners, schoolchildren and students (with valid ID) – EUR 2.00
• Persons who have been politically repressed – EUR 1.00
• Family with a valid “3+ Family Card” – EUR 6.00
• Groups of 20 or more – 10% discount

Free admission:

• Preschool-age children
• Persons with disabilities (with valid ID)

Visitor centre opening hours: Every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Address: Medieval Ruins of Koknese Castle, Koknese Park, Koknese, Aizkraukle Municipality, Latvia

Contact: +371 29275412