Cesis: Medieval Latvian Town, Cesis, Latvia

Cesis is a small Latvian town that is home to a 13th-century castle. Cesis Castle is the heart of this town in northeastern Latvia. Its red turret sits stop the stone fortress, like a sporty hat.

Greenery envelopes the town with swooping tree branches hiding the blue sky. The Guaja River-Latvia’s largest river-snakes through the town. However, the red-roofed buildings are the most prominent feature (besides the hulking castle).

I visited this medieval town in September when summer still ruled. The leaves had not turned crimson or burgundy yet. It reminded me of Tartu and Hay-on-Wye, with its medieval buildings and riverside parks. (Check out my town highlights video of Cesis on my Instagram page.)

The best way to enter the city is lazily walking along the lake. Elegant swans float past, gliding like feathery skaters. Toddlers busily push their tricycles along the paths.

Benches offer residents and visitors a place to observe nature or people-watch. You can also study the castle tower and wall if you angle your body.

There are 140 medieval castles in Latvia, but Cesis Castle is one of the country’s best-preserved structures. With its iconic red-roofed turret and prominent location on a hill, the castle dominates the town’s landscape. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).