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Zemgale

History

Zemgale, a fertile plain in central and southern Latvia, was home to the Semigallians, a Baltic tribe that fiercely resisted the crusading Livonian Order until finally succumbing in the late 13th century, with many fleeing to Lithuania. In the following centuries the region became the heartland of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, whose capital moved to Jelgava (Mitau) and which even pursued short-lived overseas colonies. The magnificent Rundale and Jelgava palaces, designed by architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli in the 18th century, date from this ducal era. After partitions of Poland-Lithuania the area passed to the Russian Empire, and it later shared in Latvia's independence, Soviet occupation and renewed statehood in 1991.

Culture

Zemgale is often called Latvia's breadbasket, and its identity is tied to open farmland, grain fields and a strong agricultural tradition. The region prides itself on its baroque palaces, folk songs and midsummer Ligo celebrations, blending rural custom with the refined legacy of the old duchy. Its position near the Lithuanian border gives it a distinct frontier character within Latvia.

Language

People here speak Latvian, and the local Zemgalian sub-dialect belongs to the Central Latvian variety that underlies the standard language. A friendly "Labdien" (good day) and "Paldies" (thank you) are always welcome.

Best time to visit

May to September to explore Rundāle Palace and fertile plains in bloom.

Places to visit

Where to eat