Aizpute brings together several distinct highlights: well-preserved historic buildings, medieval and ecclesiastical architecture, local crafts, and trails in Misiņkalns Nature Park. The Old Town has been listed in Latvia’s register of state-protected cultural monuments since 1998. When planning your trip, you can choose between cultural history and outdoor activities, without assuming that both offer the same travel experience.
Old Town, Castle Ruins and Church
The historic townscape is compact and well preserved, with low-rise buildings. Most are wooden houses with gabled roofs, usually standing parallel to the street. These recurring features give the buildings their distinctive character. Pilskrogs, a historic building and an architectural monument of local significance, is also among Aizpute’s architectural landmarks. The Lindenbergas kartonāžas fabrika is likewise an architectural monument of local significance.
Hasenpoth Castle is a castle of the Livonian Order with a castellated layout. Construction began in the 13th century under the direction of the Order’s Master, Dietrich von Grüningen. The castle served as a border fortification where the territories of the Livonian Order and the Bishop of Courland met. Its history thus links the building directly to the territorial boundary of that time.
The church “Aizputes Svētā Jāņa luterāņu baznīca” is one of the oldest churches in Courland and an architectural monument of state significance. Its organ was built in 1904 by the German company Sauer. Those interested in architectural history can explore another specific feature here, alongside the castle and the historic townscape.
Museum, Wine and Crafts
The Aizpute Local History Museum is housed in the New Manor House, a historic building constructed as a new manor house around the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Aizpute Winery is also currently located there; check before your trip whether both institutions are still based there. The museum’s exhibitions offer insight into Aizpute’s history and the town’s economic and cultural life.
One exhibition is titled “Senās lauku amata prasmes.” It presents textile crafts, woodworking and household tasks, as well as the tools used for them. Alongside the town’s history, it focuses on specific skills and tools. At Aizpute Winery, you can taste the wine made there and learn more about winemaking. As visitor arrangements may change, confirm these offerings before your visit.
SERDE runs a professionally equipped ceramics workshop where you can learn ceramic skills and take part in creative collaboration. If you are interested in participating, ask about current options in advance. The Lindenbergas kartonāžas fabrika and its production process can be visited by prior arrangement; make arrangements in good time.
Misiņkalns and Outdoor Activities
At 95.4 metres, Misiņkalns is the highest point in the town. Nature trails in Misiņkalns Nature Park offer scenic views over Aizpute. Restored paths through the park are suitable for walking and cycling. As trail conditions may change, check their condition before setting out. This makes the nature park a separate highlight to plan alongside the town’s historic sights.
The nature park also has a motocross track where competitions are held at national level in Latvia. If you want to attend a competition, check the dates in advance, as the schedule may change. Aizpute’s public bathing area offers a natural swimming spot for relaxation, as well as opportunities for camping and campfires. Facilities and conditions may change; check the latest information before your visit.
Arrange Visits in Advance
Aizpute Water Tower is open as a viewing tower, but visits must be booked in advance. Book through the Aizpute Tourist Information Centre or by calling +371 28617307 or +371 29103813. Check the visiting conditions before your trip. A prior arrangement is also required to visit the Lindenbergas kartonāžas fabrika.
Discover more destinations: Kazdanga, Kalvene, Cildi.
Return to the main travel guide: Aizputes Novads.
