Koknese Medieval Castle Ruins

Koknese Castle was one of the largest and most important medieval castles in Latvia. The construction of the Riga Archbishop's stone castle began here in 1209 and within a short time a huge castle with a forecourt and the fortified town of Koknese next to it was built. During next centuries it became the residence of the Archbishop of Riga. The castle and the town were repeatedly devastated.  Koknese Castle was abandoned after the western towers were blown up during the Great Northern War in 1701 and impressive ruins have survived to this day. After the Pļaviņas Hydroelectric Power plant reservoir was flooded, the water reached the castle foundations. The ruins of the medieval castle of Koknese still bear witness to the former grandeur of the ancient Hanseatic city. The castle ruins are now the venue for theatrical performances, concerts, money minting, virtual flights and old Latvian wedding ceremonies. The historical exhibition in the castle ruins pavilion gives insight about the previous scenery of the place. You can buy Koknese souvenirs and see a model of Koknese Castle. The Torture Chamber is open to the public and an audio guide is available.  At the ruins of the medieval castle of Koknese there is a boat stop from which boats leave in summer and SUP boards, boats and catamarans can be rented.