Out of all the medieval castles present in Latvia, nothing can be as stunning as the Turaida Castle. Surrounded by trees and foliage, this red castle pops out of the scenery making it the center of attention and undoubtedly the star of each and every photograph. There was a time when only a few buildings and some parts of the tower were left, but the people took it upon themselves to restore and conserve the tower to its rightful appearance.
It’s composed of many towers, but the main one is called Bergfried or The Great Round Tower. Long ago it served as an observation tower, but now through renovation for the visitors’ convenience, those who climb will be able to take in the beauty that surrounds the castle. Another exhibit is the prison of the castle, in it the visitors will be able to see the handcuffs and prison equipment through the bar of the door.
The Guard of the Castle exhibit takes place on the first floor where it’s suitable for living. Dummies inside will give you a graphic view of how things went in the life a guard long ago; sharpening equipment and throwing dice. Also inside is a display of some weapons and tools found during excavations. The Great Semi-round Tower is another main attractions in the castle. Located on the third floor, it is filled with displays of the materials used in the building of the tower like tiles and bricks. And with these materials are other antiquities uncovered during the excavation and restoration of the castle. A big chunk of the past located in one castle, surrounded by an awe-inspiring scenery, who wouldn’t want to go?
