Cultural and Social Tourism in - situation analysis –

Bauska is the among three rivers, on the Via Baltica and on the very borderline with the closest neighbour – the Republic of Bauska – a small, quiet town during centuries has always been situated in the crossroads of major trade routes welcoming travellers on the southern border.

Beginning of the town is considered being Pilsmiests or Vairogmiests originated in the middle of the 15th century on the peninsular between the Musa and Memele rivers, next to the newly built fortress of . Nowadays it is a famous place for different events like International Country Music Festival what takes place in the open-air stage, or the International Early

Music Festival – what takes

place in the Castle Ruins.

Bauska Castle was built around 1443 located in the peninsular among the Musa and Memele rivers. It was the oldest part of the fortress, and around 1580 the new part of the castle was constructed under the order of Duke Gothard Ketler. In 1706 Russian forces demolished the fortress and a part of the castle during the Northern War.

The oldest building in the old part of Bauska Town is the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, built by the German congregation between 1591 and 1594. Throughout its long existence it has carefully guarded history witnesses of the town and its inhabitants’ lives. The Church is one of the places where usually there are groups of tourists – as local as well foreign. In summertime it is opened every day for visitors.

Visiting Bauska Town and visitors can find not only interesting historical heritage but also lots of places to have fun, to have a cosy and nice place for the family celebrations and places to have good rest and recreation.

The tourist information as well as suggestions for finding accommodations and meals visitors can find in the local Tourism Information Centre what is located in the Town Square ( www.tourism.bauska.lv ).

Some other useful links: www.rundale.net www.bauskasmuzejs.lv www.mezotnespils.lv www.motormuzejs.lv