Zvārtava Castle

Zvārtava Castle (1881) is located in a picturesque setting on the shore of Lake Zvārtava, in Gaujiena Parish. Since 1970, the manor complex, including the castle, farm buildings, mill, and park, has belonged to the Latvian Artists’ Union Association.

The castle is a state-protected cultural monument of national significance (No. 2763) and one of the most expressive examples of Neo-Gothic interior design in Latvia. It is a two-storey limestone masonry building with a polygonal tower on the main facade and decorative red brick finish.

The castle interior has retained its authentic atmosphere. On the first floor, there is the Great Hall and a dining room with built-in Neo-Gothic furniture. On the second floor, in the tower section, a library has been arranged, while a wooden arcade with a skylight dome forms a distinctive architectural feature. Its stained-glass window was created in 1984 by artist Māra Kārkliņa.

Above the threshold of Zvārtava Castle, an inscription in Latin is engraved in stone: “Hic habitat Felicitas, Nihil mali intret” (“Here dwells happiness, let no evil enter”).

On the southern side of the castle, there is a terraced park overlooking Lake Zvārtava.

Zvārtava Castle houses the museum of the Latvian Artists’ Union, featuring exhibitions of late 20th-century and contemporary art, including textile art, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and metal art. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, as well as walks through the park and the manor complex grounds. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions, symposiums, and cultural events, including “Museum Night”, “Night of Legends”, and the “Lielā Talka”.

    Address
    "Zvārtavas pils", Gaujienas pagasts
    Contact
  • Opening hours

    Mon. closed

    Tu. – Sun. 12:00-17:00

    Tours must be booked in advance!

    The exterior of the manor, garden, and surrounding area can be visited at any time.