Legends Night at Durbe Castle

Throughout the evening, attendees will have the opportunity to explore legendary artists and their artworks, learn about the former residents of Durbe Castle and their passions, and immerse themselves in musical improvisations.

Legends Night will serve as the concluding event of the exhibition 'Hunters' Tales.' Within this framework, art historian Edvards Šmits will introduce the audience to eminent 18th-19th century artists: Johann Heinrich Baumann, Jakob Samuel Beck, and Johann Elias Ridinger. Alongside the researcher, attendees will have the chance to view the exhibition 'Hunters' Tales,' examine the exhibited artworks, study the artists' distinct styles, and understand the significance of these works in the context of art history.

Meanwhile, Inta Disher, a researcher from the Tukums Museum, will share stories about the former owner of Durbe Castle, von der Recke, his lifestyle, his passion for hunting, and 19th-century hunting traditions.

A special atmosphere during the evening will be created by composer Sergei Austra Universs with his musical improvisations, allowing listeners to delve into a mysterious world of sounds.

Interactive opportunities offered by modern technology will invite visitors to immerse themselves in a historical ambiance - through QR codes, they will even be able to encounter virtual reality images of 19th-century hunters.

During the evening, we recommend exploring not only the outstanding artworks of the 'Hunters' Tales' exhibition but also examining decorative objects and a variety of hunting attributes: hunting horns, powder flasks, weapons, and trophies. The exhibition also features anecdotes written by the painter and writer Baumann in German, 'Hunting Adventures,' mostly bordering on fictional tales but based on reality. This rare original edition from 1817, preserved in the Latvian National Library archive, is presented as a special exhibit and has served as a source of inspiration for the exhibition's authors.

The entrance fee for the event is 5.00 EUR, and preschool-aged children enter free of charge.

'Legends Night' is an annual event initiated by the Latvian Castles and Manors Association, now in its 13th edition, providing an excellent opportunity to creatively explore cultural heritage and discover historical events. In Latvian castles, manors, and other historical sites with diverse programs, visitors are introduced to various legends, stories, and historical events associated with specific locations or personalities.