The Gaujiena New Castle was built in the late classicist style from dolomite stone and brick masonry on a steep bank, from where a beautiful view of the surroundings opens up, and Baron Julius von Wulf completed it in 1850. From 1922 to 2020, the castle operated as Gaujiena Secondary School, which was once graduated by the outstanding Latvian poet Ojārs Vācietis. In turn, there is a holiday home next to it, where another outstanding personality – the composer – Jāzeps Vītols lived and rested.
The interior was created simultaneously with the aforementioned reconstructions, and is based on the late classicist style. Several interior details have survived to this day: artificial marble columns, wall decoration, ceiling paintings, parquet floors, ornately designed door decorations, etc. On the first floor, many rooms have original parquet floors. The staircase of the main door is guarded by two sleeping lions. The facade of the building is also complemented by smaller balconies with ornate cast-iron railings and brackets.
Gaujiena New Castle has all the advantages to become a successful development project. It is located in one of the most scenically beautiful places in Vidzeme, in the center of a historical manor complex, near the ancient valley of the Gauja River. The architecture of the castle, the surrounding environment and the historical story create potential for various development directions – hospitality, culture, education, creative industries or other sustainable projects. The municipality can be a direct cooperation partner. The common goal is to see Gaujiena New Castle renovated, inhabited and filled with life. So that this place becomes an important destination again, attracting visitors, creating economic activity and strengthening the recognition of Gaujiena.
• Architectural monument of national importance.
• Construction began after 1818 and the main building of the castle was completed in 1827, with rooms furnished entirely for the needs of the baron's family.
• The palace was built in the classicist style and decorated with columns.
• A plot of land measuring 1.65 hectares, on which there are three buildings: a 19th-century castle, an ice cellar and a barn.
• Bordered the scenic Gauja Park territory.
• Well-maintained flora and fauna, as well as tourist attractions.
• The castle has a basement and two floors for living, as well as quite spacious attic rooms with small windows built into them.
• Wood heating.
• City water supply and sewerage.
• 3-phase electricity.
Gaujiena New Castle is part of history, identity and cultural heritage. For decades, the castle has served education, social life and the needs of the local community. Many residents of the region have personal memories associated with this place, but at the same time they must be aware that the maintenance and restoration of such a large and complex cultural monument requires significant financial resources. Gaujiena New Castle is a place that is ready to pulsate with new energy, creating added value for the region and inspiring everyone who comes here.
Development scenarios:
• Boutique hotel and event center – an elegant and sophisticated environment for weddings, celebrations and international events. A premium class retreat for both Latvian and foreign guests.
• Artist and Researcher Residency – a creative space for new ideas, scientific and artistic initiatives that will strengthen the cultural and academic environment.
• Rehabilitation and social care center – a place where professional help combines with a peaceful environment, restoring both body and spirit.
• SPA and health tourism complex – water therapy, nature therapy programs, silent retreats, yoga and meditation, which provide complete harmony.
• An exclusive senior care center – a cozy, beautiful, and dignified living space that combines comfort with care and safety.
The preservation, restoration and filling of a cultural and historical object of this scale with new content requires significant long-term investments, a professional approach and a clear development vision. Therefore, the municipality is convinced that the greatest contribution to both the castle itself and Gaujiena as a whole can be made by a caring and enterprising investor who is able to combine the preservation of cultural heritage with sustainable development. The new baron must take into account the following conditions when purchasing this property:
• The public must be granted the right to access the property at least four times within a calendar month to view the Gaujiena New Castle from the outside.
• Within two years from the date the real estate is registered in the Land Register in the buyer's name, the buyer must strengthen the slope of the Gaujiena New Castle according to the developed construction project.
• At least one million euros must be invested within five years and the facade must be renovated.
• All these conditions will be registered in the Land Register as encumbrances and in case of non-fulfillment, the municipality will be able to buy the castle for a lower price than it was sold for.
A skilled young castle baron and investor will have an excellent opportunity to purchase the adjacent buildings and land of the castle complex in the future.