Over the past few years, a number of millennials have exchanged the bustling streets of Riga for the tranquil alleys of Cēsis, appreciating the quality of life in this town. They bring with them alternative concepts for cafés, art galleries, and co-working spaces. Together with a forward-thinking local government, they’ve made Cēsis into the cultural and art hub of Latvia’s Vidzeme region. Featuring several trendy accommodations and restaurants that have breathed new life into the medieval town, today Cēsis is one of the most popular weekend destinations for Rigans. The biggest draw in Cēsis is the Old Town with its perfectly-preserved Middle Age layout. The idyllic scenery extends to the castle complex, situated right next to the town centre. It contains the spectacular ruins of the Medieval Castle and the elegant 18th-century New Cēsis Castle. Medieval culture is still held in high regard in Cēsis and can be enjoyed at themed events held in the castle complex and the well-manicured park, which plays host to one of the most anticipated events of the year, the Lampa Conversation Festival. Held every summer, it draws participants from both the culture and business environments and is an inspiring platform for all who want to learn and talk about issues that affect Latvia, Europe, and the whole world. Erected in 2014, the modern Cēsis Concert Hall also hosts plenty of cultural events. Every month the centre’s programme is brimming with noteworthy events and festivals, such as the Kremerata Baltica Festival and the Cello Cēsis international cello festival, attracting listeners from Latvia and abroad.
CĒSIS ART FESTIVAL Taking place every summer for a whole month, this festival offers an exquisitely curated programme, attracting big-name artists from the region and beyond Latvia’s borders. The festival breaks away from orthodox venues and spills over into the town’s public spaces, inviting the audience to become part of the events.
Courtesy of Cēsu TIC
The cultural hub
CĒSIS CONCERT HALL Operating since 2014, this multi-functional cultural centre is the heart of local life and popular with culture-minded visitors. Established on the premises of a former Cēsis community building, the concert hall is a perfect marriage of old and modern. Every month the centre’s programme is brimming with noteworthy events and festivals. Ērgļu Cliffs near Cēsis
Courtesy of Cēsu TIC
CĒSIS
Cēsis Art Festival in 2013*
UNSPOILT NATURE AROUND CĒSIS Nature has truly been generous here – the Cēsis area is one of the most beautiful parts of Latvia. With cliffs, caves, and forests as far as the eye can see, the scenery of the Gauja River valley is spectacular no matter what the season. * Vadim Vishkin’s installation Miss Christmas (2012)
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