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Creation of the Municipality
Smiltene Municipality was established on 1 July 2021, after the administrative territorial reform of local governments, when the former municipalities of Smiltene, Ape and Rauna were merged. The municipality consists of 2 towns and 14 parishes: Smiltene, Ape, Ape Parish, Bilska Parish, Blome Parish, Branti Parish, Drusti Parish, Gaujiena Parish, Grundzāle Parish, Launkalne Parish, Palsmane Parish, Rauna Parish, Smiltene Parish, Trapene Parish, Variņi Parish and Vireši Parish.
Territory of the Municipality
The municipality is located in the south-eastern part of the Vidzeme Planning Region, in the historical region of Vidzeme, near the Estonian border. The total area is 1800.55 km². The largest parish is Launkalne Parish with 221.8 km². The smallest area is the town of Ape with 2.45 km². Population density – 11 inhabitants per km².
Roads and Accessibility
The distance from Latvia’s capital Riga to the administrative centre of Smiltene Municipality is 132 km.
The municipality borders Valka, Valmiera, Cēsis, Alūksne and Gulbene municipalities, as well as the Estonian counties of Valga and Võru.
The municipality is crossed by the national main road A2 Riga–Sigulda–Estonian border (Veclaicene) and several regional roads.
Environment
The municipality is rich in natural resources, landscapes and cultural heritage.
Forests, mineral resources and agricultural land support the development of many large companies.
Main Economic Sectors
Agriculture, forestry, wood processing, services, Industry, construction, trade.
Population
The municipality has more than 18,600 inhabitants (data from 1 January 2024).
The largest populated areas are: Smiltene town, Rauna Parish, Bilska Parish, Launkalne Parish, Smiltene Parish.
The smallest populated areas are Ape Parish and Vireši Parish.
Population groups: 63% are of working age (15–64 years), 21% are above working age (64+ years), 16% are children under 15 years of age
Brand “Smiltenes novadā sanāk ” (“Everything Works Out in Smiltene Municipality”)
An Active and Energetic Place
Smiltene Municipality is a harmonious place to live that attracts energetic and proactive people. The municipality is open to people and ideas. It gives energy and helps people recover. People in Smiltene Municipality are active, energetic and passionate. They take responsibility and create a better, more interesting and more beautiful environment for themselves, other people and visitors. Even when things do not go as planned, people continue working until everything works out. Nature and a harmonious Latvian environment help people relax and regain energy.
A Place to Work and Invest
Smiltene Municipality is economically active and full of energy. Large companies, family businesses and home producers all find their place here. The municipality values existing entrepreneurs and supports new ones. Skilled workers in every field are respected.
A Place to Discover Talents and Gain Knowledge
Smiltene Municipality offers many educational opportunities for children and young people — from preschool to secondary and vocational education. People can continue learning throughout their lives. Residents of all ages can discover and develop their talents in amateur art groups and sports clubs. The municipality values inspiring teachers and professionals who help others grow and gain knowledge.
A Place for a Harmonious Lifestyle
Smiltene Municipality combines nature and urban infrastructure. People can successfully balance work, family life, personal growth, health and leisure. Living here makes it easier to find harmony with yourself and your surroundings.
A Place to Experience Latvian Traditions and Renew Yourself
Smiltene Municipality is a place where people can experience Latvian culture with all their senses — by tasting, participating and enjoying traditions. People can enjoy sports, dance and music together with talented athletes, dancers and musicians. It is also a place where people can regain strength and energy from nature.
The Idea of “SANĀK”
The slogan “Everything Works Out in Smiltene Municipality!” symbolizes both coming together and success. People come here to live, work, study and relax. People in Smiltene Municipality take action and they succeed.