Moricsala Add an Object
Moricsala(82.3 ha) is the most famous island in Latvia, once known as the Fish Island, but later renamed Moricsala when Count Moritz of Saxony was appointed as a duke in Kurzeme for a brief period. After an attack by Russian troops, Moritz and his allies were forced to flee and chose this island as their stronghold. However, they eventually surrendered after a Russian siege, and Moritz himself escaped from the island.
MoricsalaNature Reserve is the oldest protected nature territory in Latvia, established in 1912. Moricsala is recognized as one of the best research sites for the natural development of oak and linden forests in Europe. Moricsala is one of the few areas that have remained untouched or minimally transformed by human activity for over 200 years.
MoricsalaReserve is included in the European Union's network of protected nature territories "Natura 2000", as well as the list of important bird areas of the European Union. In order to preserve the untouched nature, this reserve cannot be visited in person or can only be visited under strict supervision and with a specific purpose.
The residents of Usma still remember Count Moritz and celebrate Moritz Festival every year on the first Saturday of August, with theater performances, dance groups, and musicians. Visitors also participate in various attractions.
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Location:
Address: Usmas ezers