Discover Dobele: Castle, Bērze and Crafts

Dobele is a destination for anyone who wants to combine historical sites, walks and discoveries of traditional crafts. The historic centre of Dobele is a nationally significant urban monument. At the same time, the townscape is shaped by the stone castle of the Livonian Order, the Bērze and several distinctive gardens.

Historic Centre and Castle Complex

A good starting point for exploring Dobele’s past is the historic market square. It was created at the same time as the church was built in 1495. This makes the square one of the tangible traces through which the early development of the town can be observed. The stone castle of the Livonian Order is the oldest building in Dobele and a cultural monument of national significance. The combination of the market square, church and castle alone makes the town interesting for travellers who want to fill their stay not only with relaxation but also with historical impressions.

At the ruins of Dobele Castle, the promenade offers a scenic walk along the right bank of the Bērze. Ķestermežs presents a different setting: the area is used for walking and relaxation, while the scenic Bērze winds its way through it. These two described walking options allow for different daily rhythms, without requiring you to limit your stay to just one type of excursion. When choosing your holiday apartment, it may therefore be decisive whether you mainly want to explore historical sites or also plan to spend time in green surroundings.

Museums, Exhibitions and Dobeles Pils

The historical exhibition “Once Upon a Time in Dobele” at the Dobele Local History Museum presents the history of Dobele Castle Hill and the settlement that developed around it from the 13th century to the 1940s. It thus offers a broad chronological perspective on the development of the town. Guided tours of the Dobele Local History Museum can be arranged at any other time, independently of the opening hours of the exhibition space. Those who prefer a guided tour can take this wish into account when planning their visit.

The castle itself has also acquired a new cultural dimension. The converted chapel building of Dobele Castle was put into operation in 2020 and transformed into a multifunctional centre for culture, crafts and tourism development called Dobeles Pils. At the Dobele Crafts House, there are opportunities to demonstrate, learn and pass on traditional and modern craft skills. For families travelling together, this change between viewing historical sites and learning about crafts can create a varied holiday day without requiring a fixed programme to be derived from it.

Gardens, Stones and Regional Impressions

The garden of Lilija and Alfrēds Štelmahers includes a stone exhibition complemented by decorative plantings. Alongside the town’s history, this creates an experience with a stronger landscape focus. The Pētera Upīša Museum offers another thematic perspective: its exhibition is dedicated to the horticulturist’s contribution to agricultural science. During the season, visitors can taste fruit and berries grown in the garden of the Pētera Upīša Museum. This seasonal opportunity is a specific highlight for travellers who want to include gardens, plants and regional flavours in their plans.

The Right Accommodation for Planning Your Trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Dobele, it is worth first defining your personal focus. Should the trip mainly centre on the castle, market square and museum, or would you also like to enjoy walks along the Bērze, garden visits and insights into traditional and modern crafts? Dobele is a suitable destination for days during which culture, observing nature and quiet discoveries alternate.

For further location options, Aizstrautnieki, Prinči, Auri, Biksti and Zebras Muiža are also available.

For the overarching travel overview: Dobeles Novads.