Description of the attraction
From the castle of the Livonian Order in Dobele, built around the middle of the 14th century, only ruins remain today. According to historical chronicles, the construction of the castle began in 1335. The castle was built of stone for the needs of the Livonian Order. However, shortly after the start of the construction of the fortress, construction was suspended and was continued only in 1345.
It is believed that at the beginning of the 13th century there was a wooden Semigallian fortress on the site of the Dobele castle. After the crusaders took over the lands, which passed to the Livonian Order, the territory on which the wooden castle stood was an excellent place for the construction of a new stronghold. Moreover, the wooden castle had already been burned by the Semigallians themselves, who retreated to Lithuania.
Dobele Castle consisted of four buildings that surrounded the courtyard. There was also a chapel at the castle. On the western side, next to the quadrangular tower, there was an entrance gate.
Throughout its history, the castle has repeatedly been at the center of battles between different forces. One of the most serious battles took place in 1620, in this battle Dobele Castle was captured by the Swedish troops of Gustav Adolf. In the period from 1643 to 1649. in the castle lived the widow of Duke Frederick Elizabeth Magdalena. Dobele Castle did not escape the Great Northern War, during which the fortress again became a site of battles. During this period, King Charles XII of Sweden spent several days in the castle.
There are many legends associated with the castle. So, for example, until now it has not been possible to find underground passages. According to legend, one of them passed under the river Berze, and led to its other bank, and the second underground passage went to the Lielberze.
Over the entire period of the castle's existence, it has been rebuilt and expanded several times. The castle fell into complete desolation in 1730. By that time, it was so dilapidated that it was abandoned. The roof collapsed and the castle has not been rebuilt since.
Today the walls of the castle are preserved in order to prevent their further destruction. This work began in 2001. The walls of the fortress, as well as the walls of the church, whose height reaches 20 meters, have been partially preserved. The ruins of the castle are a pretty romantic place, and one of their favorite places to take pictures. Various festivals and events are often held here.
It is believed that treasures are hidden in the castle. Mysterious and unexplained cases often occur here.
There is another interesting legend. Once the roof of the castle was copper. In sunny weather, the sparkle of the roof could be seen from afar. According to legend, sailors heading to Ventspils mistook the shining of the roof for a lighthouse, and, focusing on it, crashed against the cliffs. This happened more than once, and the sailors cursed the copper roof. And one day, the rising hurricane carried the roof into the sea.
Reviews
| All reviews 0 Vitaly K. 2013-30-10 11:04:27 AM
underground passage And I know where the underground passage is, I personally saw it.
