Discover Ludzas Novads

Ludzas Novads brings together historic sites and exhibitions with protected landscapes, trails, and culinary and craft experiences. In Ludza, the synagogue, museum, and castle represent different chapters of history. Natural areas and activities offer more options if you would like to plan your trip around another theme.

Cultural Sites and History

The Ludzas Lielā sinagoga was built in 1800 and is considered the oldest wooden synagogue in the Baltics. It was restored to its original appearance in 2016 and is a branch of the Ludzas Novadpētniecības muzejs. The synagogue contains a prayer room and modern exhibitions about documentary filmmaker Hercs Franks, his father, Ludza photographer Vulfs Franks, and the fates of Jewish families from Ludza.

The Ludzas Novadpētniecības muzejs is housed in the home of General Kuļņevs. Its history exhibition covers the history of Ludzas novads from the earliest times to the present day. A nature exhibition focuses on birds and animals in four of Latgale’s habitats: lake, forest, meadow, and bog. At the cultural and historical centre “Līču mājas,” the permanent exhibition covers archaeology, the development of manor estates, the effects of railway construction, market traditions, and the thriving town of Kārsava before the Second World War.

Castles and archaeological sites are also among the region’s historical attractions. The ruins of Ludza Castle stand on top of a castle hill, offering a panorama of the town. The Livonian Order’s castle in Ludza was built in 1399; a virtual reality presentation reconstructs it. Ciblas Kapu kalns is an archaeological monument of national importance and one of the highest and largest castle hills in Latgale.

For adult and children’s groups who have registered in advance, the museum offers guided tours of Ludza town and of the museum and its grounds, by prior reservation.

Nature, Landscapes, and Trails

Grebļukalns is a Natura 2000 nature reserve in the Pasienes pagasts of Ludzas novads. It protects rare habitats of pine forests on glacial ridges, as well as the plant species Pulsatilla patens, which is protected under the EU Habitats Directive. The “Numernes valnis” nature park is also a Natura 2000 site and has an observation tower and a nature trail. The park also features “Uguns,” an environmental artwork created by Didzis Jaunzems, a walking path, a rest area, and chairs for stargazing.

Several lakes with islands lie around the nature park by Lake Istra, including Dziļezers, Audeļu ezers, and Istras ezers. The natural monument “Rundēnu Valna dūbe” is a geological formation and the only site of its kind in the Baltics. The region’s landscapes therefore range from forest habitats to lakes and a distinctive geological formation.

For a cycling tour, marked cycle route No. 776 runs through the “Numernes valnis” nature park. The Eversmuiža nature trail follows the banks of the Ilža River; the Eversmuiža castle fort is located beside the trail. The routes differ in focus: one is a marked cycle route through a nature park, while the other is a nature trail along a riverbank. Check the current route markings before setting out on a cycling tour.

Culinary and Practical Experiences

At Latgaļu kukņa, classes on preparing traditional Latgalian dishes and exploring old recipes are available by prior arrangement. Group meals featuring Latgalian-style dishes are also available by arrangement. Organic Products offers tastings of spices, berry and vegetable powders, tea, and freeze-dried fruit candies. At the Ludza Craftsmen Centre, visitors can make a practical item or a gift in hands-on workshops; advance booking may be required.

A bus route connects Ludza with Rīga via Rēzekne and also with Kārsava. It runs via Rīga–Pļaviņas–Varakļāni–Viļāni–Rēzekne–Ludza–Kārsava. Check the current timetable before travelling. It is also advisable to check the latest information before your trip for guided tours, classes, and visitor facilities.

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Go to the main travel overview: Latvia.