Rauna Castle Ruins

Rauna, Latvia, Latvia

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Rauna Castle Ruins are among the largest and best-preserved medieval castle ruins in Latvia.

Built in the 13th century, the castle served as the principal residence and administrative center of the Archbishopric of Riga, making it one of the most important ecclesiastical strongholds in medieval Livonia. The castle was expanded several times, especially during the 16th century, and a settlement gradually developed around it, eventually becoming the village of Rauna.

However, wars involving the Livonian Order, Poland-Lithuania, Sweden, and Russia caused extensive damage, and the fortress was largely abandoned after the 17th century. In 1683, Swedish authorities ordered the demolition of its remaining military structures. Today, substantial sections of the walls and tower foundations still survive, offering visitors a striking glimpse into Latvia’s medieval past.