The town of Kuldiga (Kuldīga or Goldingen) is less than an hour’s drive west from the town of Sabile. Founded in 1242, this former Hanseatic city is the most photogenic town in Latvia. The charming testimonials of its past are visible at every step, with many centuries-old buildings still standing.
This has made the town’s streets a popular filming location for both local and international films and TV series. The city’s name stems from the original Curonian settlement named Kuldinga.
The invading Teutonic crusaders then Germanized this and renamed it Goldingen. A name that remained until the early 20th century. Even today, one will spot the word “Goldingen” in the name of local restaurants, cafes, and other establishments.
In Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums), where often crews film actors wearing historical costumes, one gets the feeling of having gone back 100 years in time.
Only the newer car models parked along the streets, the pedestrians speaking on their cellular phones, and a glass terrace jutting out to the cobblestones of the square remind one of the present.
UNESCO Recognition
Kuldiga Old Town has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2022/2023.
The fact that Kuldiga’s Old Town looks like the set of a movie is no accident. Even store signs and shop windows must have a retro look to blend in with the city’s historical heritage.
Furthermore, Kuldiga has its restoration center, which works to keep the city’s old wooden buildings. Based on well-researched restoration principles, skilled masters not only save, preserve, and renew portions of wooden buildings, but also educate local property owners.
Next to the restoration center is the pride of the town, the Kuldiga District Museum (Pils iela 5). The museum has the setup of a family residence to create a homey ambiance. It’s decorated with authentic, ornate wallpaper imported from America.
Aside from its superb depiction of life a century ago, the museum is hosting exhibitions. Nearby, the arched red-brick bridge that spans the River Venta enhances the feeling of being in a peaceful and idyllic setting.
Completed in 1874, the bridge was built to accommodate the width of two-horse carriages crossing in opposite directions.