Good practice:

Kuldiga Town garden as an attractive area for daily life, tourism and leisure

The Town Garden is located in the oldest part of Kuldiga, at the site of the former Livonian Order castle and later the residence of the Dukes of Courland. It was important to the town at all times and is one of the oldest green areas in Kuldiga dating back to 1879. The importance for Kuldiga's tourism is determined by its archaeological, historical, urban and architectural values. The location between the Venta Valley with its waterfall and the old brick bridge, the Town Hall and pedestrian area makes is an active linking area for tourist flows.
However, at the end of the 20th and beginning of the 21st century this area had become unattractive and abandoned, public activities had run short and the state of the environment had grown worse. This project emphasized the park's quality, historical sincerity and importance for public life. A “flower river” of 100 meters was created, damaged and withered trees were cut down, opening the most beautiful corners of the park. There are several recreational places with benches, as well as sculptures. On the territory of the park, the Livonian Order Castle is marked with colourful concrete slabs of chessboard pattern, an accessible part of the castle’s basement, a historic gazebo, walkways, a pond with illuminated fountain and romantic bridges. The project has ensured the environmental accessibility throughout the territory for people with reduced mobility – pedestrian pathways, access to viewpoints and information stands.

Total project costs: € 1 134 531. Project was developed by Kuldiga District Municipality and co-financed by European Regional Development Fund

The Town Garden is an important place for public events, celebrations and festivals in balance with or even enhancing the local cultural and natural values.
As one of the most visited sites, the park hosts fairs in honour of jumping fish in the Venta waterfall in spring and for artisans and merchants in the autumn.
Consequentely and adding to the success of the area, the adjacent building of Kuldiga District Museum (Villa Bangerts) was renovated.

The park shows how Kuldiga District Municipality promotes and maintains synthesis of the cultural heritage and nature values by implementing a set of complimentary activities as well as the way to transform an unattractive area to a lively, inclusive and vibrant place.
The project can be replicated by applying the complex approach for revitalization of a historically important but abandoned territory, emphasizing its historical values and landmarks, using its educational and recreational potential and organizing attractive events related both to cultural traditions and innovations and enjoyment of natural beauty.
Such approach to redevelopment of a high quality public green space has also a positive impact on creation of new private services in fields of tourism, public catering etc. and new jobs for local population. Good management of visitor flows and day-to day maintenance of the project results are also important.