We stopped here briefly as we drove from Riga to Vilnius in a rented car. It is important to note that the castle hours are shortened in the winter months but when we went in April the courtyard was open early. The exterior walls of the Livonian Order castle are interesting because part of it is restored and the other half is ruins. The castle itself is set between two rivers, there are cannons placed on the hills in the front and there is a "postcard" photo opportunity on the one river bank. We spent about 20 minutes here walking around and taking photos but could see ourselves spending a little over an hour here if it were open. Parking nearby the castle is free and it is a ten minute drive to Rundale Palace from here. There are tours that include this castle and have some crazy high prices (130 Euros per person) and we rented a car for less than 30 euros a day to get out here - the drive is easy and the signage is clear.

This was a beautiful and unusual castle and the staff were very friendly. Plenty to see, but your visit won't take more than 1-2 hours. There's no cafe and not much of a gift shop, so bring water if it's hot. Great English signage to help us foreigners.

Allow 90min to see all the exhibitions. no need to buy a ticket if you want to take picture from the inside portal. The exhibitions were fantastic. Notice: no description in English. there is an audio guide, but it not obvious where to get it. the is a paper map / directory paper in the front desk.

Interesting castle, but many explanations were not translated in English. Some exhibition rooms were open till 18, but 5 minutes before that time doors were closed. Museum complex was open till 20. Museum shop was closed already in 18.30, but on door was opening time till 19.

It was built in the 15th century by the Livonian Knights (a branch of the Teutonic Order). The castle was destroyed by war in the 18th century and currently only half of it was restored. It displays the original architecture layout, as well as exhibitions of historical artifacts. The staff in medieval costumes are friendly and helpful. The scenery around the castle is awesome, and there are very beautiful views at road to go.