Sigulda is on a
picturesque stretch of the primeval Gauja river valley. Because
of the reddish Devonian sandstone which forms steep rocks and
caves on both banks of the river, Sigulda has been called the
"Switzerland of Vidzeme". After the restoration of
Latvian independence in 1991, an emphasis was placed on
conserving Sigulda's public monuments and parks as well as
improving the town's tourist sector. Supported by the town
council, a traditional Opera Festival takes place in an open-air
music hall in the castle ruins each summer. A Town Festival is
celebrated in May when cherry trees blossom, while Sigulda is
known for the colors of its trees in autumn. Sports such as
skiing, bobsledding, and the luge are popular in wintertime and
bungee jumping is practiced during the rest of the year. In 2007
Sigulda celebrated its 800th anniversary.
Click on the picture to
have a larger version
| Various
from the museum in the castle |
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