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We got to the center of Daugavpils well after midnight, so we just wanted to fall into the hotel bed and get a good night’s sleep. We just have no idea what awaits us in the historic city just off the Lithuanian border. And the first surprise here was right next to the hotel.
An unusual vending machine stands next to the HomeLike Hotel at the intersection of Mihoelsa and Riga streets. At first, it may turn out that there must be snacks, drinks or hygiene items here. However, when we got closer, we were greeted by a surprise: a 24-hour automatic kiosk selling ceramics, jewelry and other works of art, SANRI AAATR BOX.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Here you can find works by the artist Sandra Poplavska-Rimicānes, who lives and works in Daugavpils. We have to admit that we did not expect such a surprise in the very center of Daugavpils.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
It was so lovely that we bought some pottery to sell here. And you can see how it works in the video.
We spend the night at the HomeLike Hotel, which is located in a renovated 20th century building. in a house built at the beginning. So if you want to experience a strange but memorable feeling, you can spend the night in this hotel; here you will find rooms that, to our surprise, have been illuminated with blue neon lights. Let’s not hide: a unique solution that remains in memory for a long time.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
After leaving the hotel, we started to get acquainted with the history of Daugavpils from the morning. We are convinced that Daugavpils, which is only 25 km from the Lithuanian border, is the historical center of Latgale’s arts and ceramics. Proof of this is the special attention paid to art in this city. The only fortress in Eastern Europe that has survived almost unchanged into the early 19th century is like a city within a city. Behind the solid masonry walls, not only tourist objects and museums, but also residential houses, service centers (Nikolaja str. 5).
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Daugavpils Fortress (formerly Dinaburg) is the most famous cultural and historical monument in Daugavpils, as well as one of the symbols of the city.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The construction of this fortress began in preparation for Napoleon’s attack, and in 1812 the unfinished fortress successfully withstood the baptism of fire, withstanding the first attacks from Napoleon’s army.
In the second half of the 19th century, the Daugavpils Fortress became unsuitable for defense due to its outdated technological solutions, but it remained the last bastion-type fortress built in Europe.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Built for war, adapted for art
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Center is located in the Daugavpils Fortress Arsenal building. It is the only place in Eastern Europe where you can get acquainted with the original works of the world-famous artist, the founder of Abstract Expressionism, Mark Rothko.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The Mark Rothko Art Center also has places for artist camps and residences, which are used by artists from abroad or from other parts of Latvia.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Here I was also pleasantly surprised not only by the collection of original works by M. Rothko, but also by the ceramic and porcelain exhibits. The exhibition “ONE SIZE” of the works of our compatriot artist, the ceramist Eglė Einikytė-Narkevičienė was probably the most rewarding.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
There is also a private exhibition of medical history and a collection of medical and health supplies on the fortress territory.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
To improve health – rest in nature
Daugavpils city is surrounded by beautiful, natural and clean nature. After a cultural and artistic visit to the city center, we went to see how nature relaxes near Stropai Lake. This body of water is the largest in the city, attracting tourists during the summer season, because its “Blue” flag flies over its central beach, dedicated to meeting the requirements of water quality, environmental protection and developed infrastructure.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The Chill & Grill campsite and one of the five Tarzans adventure parks in Latvia (Dzintaru str. 74) are located by the lake.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
If you want more peace in nature, you can air your head and your thoughts in the Stropai forest around the lake, on the active recreation and sports court.
Lielborne Mansion. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Local cuisine, like at home. Or maybe even better?
The walks around the lake were topped off by a local recommended lunch spot at a remote mansion near Daugavpils. And yes, because of that food and the environment, it is worth a drive east of this historic city.
Lielborne Manor, which is currently being renovated in the Daugava River Valley, is a cozy, stately place, but without pomp. In addition, there is a hotel for those who want to spend their holidays surrounded by nature, but in a manic environment. The prices of the rooms range between 60 and 220 euros, depending on the number of people and the time of year.
Lielborne Mansion. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
Here we were greeted by Nora Poiša, the owner who takes care of the mansion and her kitchen. According to her, the historic mansion is only being reborn, and those who come here can see the surroundings change over time.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
For lunch, Nora offered a wonderful local beef stew with fresh vegetables, as well as homemade lemonade, and for dessert, ice cream and excellent coffee.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The food here is natural, simple, very tasty and of high quality, reminiscent of the comfort of home. Or maybe even better? Go and experience it for yourself.
And the kingdom of garlic
Rich in culture, history and gastronomy, Latgale surprises at every turn. At the end of our trip to this part of Latvia, we visit the real kingdom of garlic, founded by Viola and Māris Reinholdi.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
The garlic farm, created by their own hands, produces various types of garlic spreads, special snacks and even garlic-flavored sweets – lollipops and even chewing gum. The hosts, who are always waiting for the guests, showed how these garlic products marked with the symbol of traditional Latvian culinary heritage are made, as well as tasting and buying local garlic products. The tasting costs 2.5 euros per person.
Daugavpils. Source: DELFI / Modesta Bear
After such a strong experience, garlic is probably loved even by those who don’t like it.
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