DimDim
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Āraiši Lake Castle is the only reconstruction of a 8/9 – 10th century fortified settlement in Europe; a unique object, which this year is nominated as the Latvian archaeological monument of 2020.
The park excels with its unique archaeological findings, the placement of reconstruction on its original environment, and the well-preserved cultural and historical landscape of Vidzeme.
The ruins of the Āraiši “castella” type medieval castle can be seen on the shore of the lake, but the buildings on Meitu Island are designed as reconstructions according to the archaeological data obtained in Latvia and neighbouring countries about these types of Stone and Bronze Age dwellings.
The Visitors Centre hosts a permanent exposition, in which, for the first time since the excavations, the original evidence obtained and the story of Jānis Apals are introduced.
Nearby, within walking distance, there are other attractions - Āraiši Church and windmill, as well as the Husky dog farm.