Aglona Basilica

A striking white Baroque basilica that is Latvia's most important Catholic pilgrimage site. Hundreds of thousands gather here each August for the Feast of the Assumption, while others visit year-round for its serene lakeside setting.

Things to do

• Tour the Basilica interior — Admire the twin-towered white Baroque church completed in 1780 and its revered icon of the Miraculous Mother of God of Aglona.
• Join the Assumption pilgrimage — Experience the massive August 15 Feast of the Assumption when hundreds of thousands of pilgrims gather for open-air Mass.
• Walk the sacred spring path — Visit the holy spring near the basilica where pilgrims collect water believed to have healing properties.
• Stroll around Lake Cirisis and Lake Egle — Enjoy the serene lakeside setting that frames the basilica between two lakes.
• See the Way of the Cross — Follow the outdoor Stations of the Cross set within the basilica grounds and surrounding parkland.
• Visit the Museum of Bread — Learn traditional Latgalian bread-baking at this nearby museum and taste warm rye loaf straight from the oven.

Food to try

• Latgalian rye bread — Dense sourdough rye bread is a regional staple, often baked in wood-fired ovens and served warm.
• Kļocki (potato dumplings) — Hearty Latgalian dumplings made from grated potato, a filling comfort dish common in the region.
• Grey peas with bacon — Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, the classic Latvian dish of stewed grey peas with fried bacon and onion.
• Silke (salted herring) — Salted herring served with potatoes and onions is a beloved everyday Latgalian meal.
• Biezpiena maize — Fresh farmer's cheese spread on rye bread, sometimes with honey, sold at local markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly in the basilica — As an active Catholic pilgrimage site, cover shoulders and knees and keep quiet during services.
• Book far ahead for August — Accommodation in and around Aglona fills up completely near the Assumption feast, so reserve months in advance.
• Bring a bottle for spring water — Pilgrims traditionally fill containers at the holy spring, so carry one if you wish to collect water.
• Respect Latgalian traditions — Latgale is a distinct, deeply Catholic region with its own dialect, so a few local greetings are appreciated.

Nearby

• Aglona — 0 km
• Rāzna Lake — 26 km
• Krāslava — 28 km
• Daugava Bends Nature Park — 28 km