Discover Grobiņa: Archaeology and Curonian Vikings

Four themes shape a visit: the archaeological complex, the nature trail along the Ālande, the Kuršu Vikingu apmetne, and the “Senais Jūrpils krasts” promenade. There is also a memorial room for the writer Zenta Mauriņa and distinctive landmarks in public spaces.

Until the 9th century AD, Grobiņa was home to a significant settlement of Norsemen and Curonians with a proto-urban, or early town-like, character. In the archaeological complex, artefacts, settlement sites, and burials show the interaction between the Norsemen and the local Curonians.

Grobiņa’s historical connection to the Baltic Sea is also part of its story: at the time, the town was connected to the Baltic Sea via the Ālande River. The settlement’s history and its connection to the river offer different perspectives on the past of the place.

The nature trail along the Ālande River follows the river bends through present-day Grobiņa. Information boards about Grobiņa’s history are placed along the entire route. If you’d like to learn about local history while walking or cycling, the trail brings both together.

The trail is suitable for walking and cycling, as well as for parents with strollers and people with reduced mobility. It offers a practical way to experience the river landscape and historical information along the same route.

The Kuršu Vikingu apmetne offers opportunities to learn about the lives of the Curonian Vikings, step into Viking roles, and explore legends. There are also trips on a large Curonian Viking boat and a school for Curonian Viking combat.

The activities offer a range of experiences: from exploring stories and legends and immersing yourself in a Viking role to going on trips and attending the combat school. You can choose based on whether you’re most interested in stories, role-playing experiences, or a hands-on activity.

The “Senais Jūrpils krasts” promenade includes a reservoir and ten viewpoints with benches. The viewpoints provide several places to sit and linger; the reservoir adds opportunities to enjoy the water.

A 15 m-long replica of a Curonian boat is mounted above the market square’s canopy. The Zenta Mauriņa Memorial Room preserves the writer’s belongings and letters. Together, the market square and memorial room offer contrasting perspectives on public space and literary heritage.

Discover more destinations: Medze, Dubeņi, and Bārta.

What is special about the Priediens image stone?

An image stone was discovered at the Priediens burial mound site. It is considered the only find of its kind outside Scandinavia.

How high does Wallberg rise above the mill pond?

The Wallberg of Grobiņa, also known as Skābarža kalns, rises 5 m above the level of the Dzirnavu dīķis mill pond.

What activities are possible on the promenade’s reservoir?

Fishing and boat trips are possible on the reservoir of the “Senais Jūrpils krasts” promenade.

For the main travel overview: Grobiņas Novads.