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Sigulda… Where the Medieval Ruins Are Concealed by a Neo-Gothic Manor
The building from 1878 enshrouds a Livonian relic dating back to 1207, and makes for an eclectic ensemble.
I was aware that the northern watchtower has been restored. A friend who had returned following an extended visit to Latvia informed me this watchtower also has an elevator. This bit of acquired information ensured it became an initial priority and an eventual disappointment. The elevator was alright there, but it was not functional.
If climbing creaky stairs all the way to the fifth floor wasn’t enough, I was guilty of disrupting the private moments being shared by a very much in love couple. While they were equally at fault for displaying affection in what is essentially a public space, I sincerely apologize for being the disruptive element, even though it was unintentional.
They were the only ones in the tower, and once they had left, the climb up to the fifth floor suddenly seemed worth the effort and a good place to begin exploring the premises. The north tower (photograph below) of the Siguldas ordeņa pils (Sigulda Medieval Castle), or the Siguldas viduslaiku pilsdrupas (Sigulda medieval castle ruins) offers an array of breathtaking views and an ever-changing kaleidoscope of contrasting colors.