Cesis 12/13 VI 2010

Nestled amid the pine forests of the Gauja National Park lies the ancient city of Cesis. Construction of the first stone castle began here in 1206. It was built by German knights and served as the headquarters for the Livonian Order until the 16th century. A city soon grew around the castle which enjoyed a long period of prosperity as a member of the prestigious medieval trade organisation, the Hanseatic League. It is also believed that Cesis is the birthplace of the Latvian flag.