Discover Aglona: Basilica, Nature and Culture

Aglona combines religious history, unusual museums and nature experiences around Lake Cirīša. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between a culturally focused stay, excursions into the countryside and activities on the water or by bicycle. A holiday apartment in Aglona provides a suitable base if you want to get to know the town not merely as a place to stay overnight, but as a diverse travel destination.

Basilica and Religious Heritage

Aglona Basilica is an important Catholic religious centre in Latvia. Every year on 15 August, pilgrims come to Aglona to celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Those who plan their trip around this date will experience a special religious occasion; outside this event, the basilica also remains interesting because of its artistic treasures.

Inside, there is an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures and other religious works of art. This includes the icon “Aglonas Brīnumdarītāja Dievmāte”, created in the 17th century. It is unveiled only on religious holidays. This special treatment of the icon makes the basilica a destination for visitors who want to combine sacred art, traditions and the religious history of Latvia.

Nature on Lake Cirīša

Upursala lies in Lake Cirīša and, at 16 hectares, is the largest and best-known of the lake’s eight islands. The nature trail on Cirīšas Upursala is a 1.7-kilometre circular route. Information boards and stations focus on trees, protected plants, animals and birds. If you want to include a clearly defined route in your trip, this circular trail offers a specific nature experience alongside the cultural attractions.

Raft trips on the raft “Vektra” are also offered on Lake Cirīša. Cyclists can include the approximately 20-kilometre “Lielais ģimenes loks” cycle route in their plans, which is connected to Aglona. Cirīša ezers Nature Park is located in Aglonas pagasts in Preiļi Municipality. It protects a landscape characteristic of the Latgale Upland with its natural assets, covers 1,275 hectares and forms part of the European Natura 2000 network of protected areas.

Museums with Surprising Themes

Aglona offers several cultural attractions with very different focuses. The WW2 – World War II and Antiquities Museum was established in 2008. It displays weapons and ammunition from both sides of the Eastern Front, as well as soldiers’ personal belongings and letters. Visitors can also try on and photograph a World War II uniform there.

The Aglona Bread Museum offers a completely different perspective. The permanent exhibition includes equipment and objects used in traditional bread baking. Tastings and the enjoyment of various herbal teas are also offered. At the Post and Information Museum, a journey through time traces the development of information history and postal history in Latvia and around the world.

Wooden Sculptures and Shared Discoveries

Christ the King’s Mount is a 20-hectare complex of wooden sculptures depicting biblical scenes. These include Noah’s Ark, the Garden of Paradise, a wooden church and the Island of Love. You can explore the complex independently or on a guided walking tour. This allows you to experience the visit either as a self-directed discovery or as an accompanied cultural experience.

When choosing your accommodation, it is worth deciding in advance on your preferred travel rhythm: the basilica and its artistic treasures favour a cultural and religious-history focus, while Lake Cirīša, Upursala, raft trips and the cycle route provide different highlights. Museums and the Bread Museum complement this selection with history, everyday culture and regional culinary experiences. This allows you to search specifically for a holiday apartment or holiday house in Aglona that suits your planned vacation days and interests.

For further trip planning, Ladiškina, Grāveri and Priežmale are also available as options.

For the overarching travel overview: Aglonas Municipality.