Latvia
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| Historically, four regions have evolved in Latvia - Vidzeme, Kurzeme, Latgale and Zemgale. The differences are noticeable in their flora and fauna, their architecture, even in the habits and character of their inhabitants. Vidzeme - bustling cities and splendiferous nature. Latvia’s highest point, Gaiziņš, is here. The Gauja National Park at the region’s centre is a rare combination of medieval castles, sandstone cliffs on the riverbanks and legendary caves. The seaside landscape varies from sandy beach to stony, wild shoreline. Kurzeme - the land of the ancient Liv and Couronian people. Fishing villages, massive forests, high sand dunes and beaches you can walk for kilometres without meeting a single soul. The “Ventas Rumba”, one of the widest waterfalls in Europe is in this region. Latgale - “The land of the blue lakes”, splendiferous landscapes, untouched nature. The Aglona village with its beautiful white Basilica is a centre of Catholicism. The region is famous for its sincere and lively people, who speak the old Latgalian dialect and know how to celebrate the traditional festivities. Zemgale - Latvia’s breadbasket with its most fertile soil, where farming has always been honoured. The flatlands of Zemgale are the storks’ favourite place. The most beautiful castles and manor houses of Latvia are in this region. The scenic forest park in Tērvete contains the tallest pine trees in Latvia, some of them are 250 years old. |
