Jaunpils brings together medieval architectural history, crafts and paths along the riverbank. The castle, museum and Lutheran church give the town a historical focus, while the park and surrounding area offer paths through nature. This makes it easy to shape a stay around your own interests, without expecting every destination to offer the same things.
Castle and Historic Buildings
Construction of Jaunpils Castle began in 1301, according to the dating by J. G. Arnt. The complex is described as an irregularly laid-out fortified Livonian Order castle with a courtyard surrounded by water. It is also one of the few medieval castles to have largely preserved its original appearance. Those interested in defensive architecture will find both a distinctive layout and a well-preserved historic structure here.
Jaunpils Lutheran Church is also listed as an architectural monument of national importance. The relevant monument protection act is dated December 4, 2023; the corresponding act for Jaunpils Watermill is dated December 7, 2023. Construction of the church began in 1592. This makes it one of the first churches built in the Duchy of Courland. From the church tower, you can enjoy views of Jaunpils’s cultural and historical centre and the surrounding landscape. Check in advance whether the tower will be accessible during your visit.
Jaunpils Watermill is also listed as an architectural monument of national importance and is considered a unique surviving example of industrial heritage. Together with the Livonian Order castle and the church, it shows that Jaunpils’s architectural history is not limited to a single period or type of building.
Museum and Crafts
Jaunpils Museum is located in the oldest part of Jaunpils Castle. Exhibitions and collections include models of Jaunpils and Dobele castles, the von der Recke family tree, archaeological finds, and collections of coins and hunting accessories. The museum also presents the history of larger and smaller manors in Jaunpils. Individual displays may change.
Jaunpils Amatu māja offers an activity for visitors who want to do more than simply look at crafts: during the “From a sheep’s back to a finished work” guided tour, participants weave their own pattern into a textile. Other activities include basketry, working with clay and felt-making courses. Master classes are offered for children and adults. As individual workshop activities may change, it is advisable to confirm specific dates before travelling.
Paths in the Park and Surrounding Area
A path in Jaunpils Park runs along the riverbank to the Love Stone. In the area around Jaunpils, Kartavu Hill offers a different kind of nature experience: wooded nature trails include a larch avenue, the rampart of an ancient hillfort, rare trees and beaver dams. The park path has a named destination by the river; the trails at Kartavu Hill wind through a landscape with several natural and historical features. Trail conditions may change.
Planning Your Visit and Stay
Advance registration for a guided tour is required to visit the interior of Jaunpils Castle; Jaunpils Museum is an exception. The castle courtyard and surroundings can be visited free of charge. Confirm the visiting arrangements before your visit. It is also best to check in advance whether the church tower is accessible and to confirm specific workshop dates, so you can plan around the visits you actually intend to make.
Jaunpils Brewery offers visits for small groups, beer with snacks and beer to take away. Group visits should be arranged in advance.
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Return to the main travel overview: Jaunpils.
