Aizpute – Old Town, Local History Museum and Misiņkalns
Aizpute combines a preserved historic urban structure with a museum, winemaking and nature experiences. Different types of visits are of interest when planning your trip: the experiences described range from the historic urban structure to visits that must be arranged in advance.
Key facts about Aizpute
Aizpute Old Town has been listed in Latvia’s register of cultural monuments of state significance since 1998. A compact historic settlement with low-rise houses has been preserved. Most of the buildings are wooden houses with gabled roofs, usually positioned parallel to the street.
The New Manor House currently houses the Aizpute Local History Museum and Aizpute Winery. The building was constructed as a new manor house around the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. At 95.4 metres, Misiņkalns is the highest point in the town of Aizpute.
Which historic sites shape the townscape?
Construction of the castle-like fortress of the Livonian Order, Hasenpoth Castle, was begun in the 13th century by the Order Master Dietrich von Groningen. The castle served as a border fortification at the place where the territories of the Livonian Order and the Bishopric of Courland met.
Another prominent building is the church “Aizputes Svētā Jāņa luterāņu baznīca”. It is an architectural monument of state significance and one of the oldest churches in Courland. Its furnishings include an organ built in 1904 by the German company Sauer. The Lindenbergas kartonāžas fabrika is an architectural monument of local significance; the factory and its production process can be visited by prior arrangement. The historic Pilskrogs building is also an architectural monument of local significance.
What do the museum and winery offer?
The exhibitions at the Aizpute Local History Museum provide insight into the history of the town of Aizpute and its economic and cultural life. At Aizpute Winery, you can taste the wine produced there and learn more about winemaking. Thus, the New Manor House offers two distinct areas of focus: urban history and an insight into local wine production.
What nature experiences are available in Aizpute?
The nature trails in Misiņkalns Nature Park offer scenic views over Aizpute. Restored paths through the park are suitable for walking and cycling.
Aizpute’s public bathing area provides a natural swimming area for recreation, as well as opportunities for camping and campfires. These options differ clearly from a historic town tour and expand the choice to include time by the water and outdoor activities.
Which visits should you plan in advance?
Aizpute Water Tower is open as an observation tower, but visits must be booked in advance. Booking is made through the Aizpute Tourism Centre or by telephone at +371 28617307 or +371 29103813.
For comparison with other destinations, you can also view Kazdanga, Kalvene and Cildi.
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What does the “Senās lauku amata prasmes” exhibition show?
The exhibition at the Aizpute Local History Museum presents textile crafts, woodworking and household tasks. It also displays the tools that were used for these activities.
What is special about the church “Aizputes Svētā Jāņa luterāņu baznīca”?
The church has an organ built in 1904 by the German company Sauer. It is also one of the oldest churches in Courland.
How can a visit to the water tower be arranged?
A visit to the water tower, which is open as an observation tower, must be booked in advance through the Aizpute Tourism Centre or by telephone at +371 28617307 or +371 29103813.
For the overarching travel overview: Aizputes Novads.
