On Monday 24 February Estonia celebrates 107 years of independence. The Estonian War Museum - General Laidoner Museum Eesti Sõjamuuseum has a tradition to mark the anniversary by staging a reenactment battle from the Estonian War of Independence. This time the event takes place on Sunday 23 February at 1 PM. The star of the show will be armoured train no 7 “Wabadus” (Freedom) - a replica of the armoured trains used by the Estonian army in the War of Independence that the Estonian War Museum built in 2018. This is a rare opportunity to see, how armoured trains were used in a war more than hundred years ago. If you have a chance, come to see the battle. Entrance is free. The event https://www.facebook.com/events/1094239669142045/

A cemetery, a park, a memorial, an art space – all of this and more is embodied in one unique place. The Sculpture Park in Klaipėda holds the echoes of both city and world history. In 1944–1945, Soviet occupiers once again took control of Lithuania, and Klaipėda was left without its old inhabitants. What were once the city's "new" cemeteries became abandoned, vandalized, and eventually destroyed. In 1977, the cemetery was officially erased, and in its place, the Sculpture Park was established. Artistic creations began to take shape, transforming the space into what it is today – a fusion of memory, history, and art. Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme #latlit #interreg #militaryheritage #heritagetourism #militaryheritagetourism

Today we want to share another route with you - "The Portrait of Soviet Lithuania". The Soviet occupation of Lithuania lasted for more than four decades, leaving a profound mark on the country’s history. This era saw repression, partisan resistance, militarization, and the eventual restoration of independence. Due to its strategic location near the West, Lithuania was of great importance to the USSR, leading to the establishment of military sites across the country. This route offers an in-depth look at the extent of Soviet influence and its lasting impact on Lithuania’s past. It also highlights the resilience of the Lithuanian people in preserving their identity and fighting for freedom. Along the way, you will see remnants of the Soviet era as well as other historical sites from the 20th century. 🔗 Discover the route: https://militaryheritagetourism.info/lt/tours/view/25 Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme #latlit #interreg #militaryheritage #heritagetourism #militaryheritagetourism

We have created special tourist routes, and today we’re sharing one of them – "Partisan Trails in Aukštaitija." During the Soviet occupation, Lithuania witnessed a fierce partisan war. The country was divided into nine partisan districts, with fighters who were well-organized, armed, and wearing military uniforms. They continued the traditions of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, resisting Soviet forces, ambushing NKVD troops, and fighting for Lithuania’s freedom. To survive, partisans built hidden bunkers deep in forests, swamps, and other secluded areas. This route offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Lithuanian partisans, as well as other important 20th-century historical sites. 🔗 Discover the route: https://militaryheritagetourism.info/lt/tours/view/24 Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme #latlit #interreg #militaryheritage #heritagetourism #militaryheritagetourism

✈️ Honoring Lithuania’s Aviation Pioneers 🇱🇹 On July 14, 1925, Lithuanian aviation took a bold leap forward when Brigadier General Antanas Gustaitis, commander of the Lithuanian Air Force, aircraft designer, and the mastermind behind the legendary ANBO planes, built his first single-seat sports aircraft – the ANBO-I. This marked the beginning of a new era in Lithuanian aviation. We also remember other great aviators: Jurgis Dobkevičius, Steponas Darius, Stasys Girėnas, Feliksas Vaitkus, Romualdas Marcinkus, Bronius Oškinis, and talented aircraft engineers who shaped our aviation legacy. Between 1918 and 1940, Lithuania’s military and civil aviation symbolized the nation’s modernization, innovation, and engineering excellence, embodying the pursuit of freedom and perfection. Postcard author - Gediminas Petras Pempė 📸 Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme #latlit #interreg #militaryheritage #heritagetourism #militaryheritagetourism

Ja interesē Latvijas militāro dzelzceļu vēsture, tad šī, pagājušā gadā izdotā grāmata noderēs tālākajā militārās vēstures izpētē!

Militārā mantojuma tūrisms šogad ir pārstāvēts arī Izstāde-gadatirgus Balttour 🤩 Sestdien un svētdien (8. un 9. februārī) nāc ciemos uz Latgales tūrisma stendu un uzzini arī par reģiona militārā mantojuma apskates vietām. Tiekamies? 😎 #military #militaryheritage #latlit Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme

Šķirstot jauno grāmatu par MILITĀRIEM DZELZCEĻIEM LATVIJĀ 1915 - 1920. Izdevniecības "Jāņasēta" stendā izstādē "Balttour 2025". Viens no grāmatas autoriem ir arī mūsu projekta eksperts - Kārlis Dambītis. Bilde paņemta no Izstādes - gadatirgus Balttour Facebook lapas.

Located south of the village of Nākotne. The Nākotne Park houses the Soviet-made Antonov AN-2. It was primarily designed as a multi-purpose civil aircraft, but was also used for military purposes. It first flew in 1947 and was a very versatile aircraft with excellent short take-off and landing capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of roles, including military ones. Military use of the aircraft included: Transportation of troops and soldiers to hard-to-reach places; Parachutist training and transportation; Providing logistics and supplies, such as delivering food, ammunition, and medical equipment to combat zones; Maintaining communications between different military units; Patrol flights and reconnaissance. Due to its simple design and reliability, the AN-2 was suitable for operation in field conditions that did not require a well-developed infrastructure. The aircraft's endurance and ability to fly at low altitudes made it very useful in a variety of climatic conditions, including conflicts involving the Soviet Union or its allies. The aircraft was used in many countries, including Eastern Europe and Asia, where it served not only civil but also military forces. AN-2 technical data: AN-2 technical data: Crew: 2 Passenger capacity: up to 12 Maximum speed: 225 km/h Cruising speed: 180 km/h Maximum take-off weight: 5250 kg Maximum flight distance: 1200 km Maximum flight duration: 7 h Fuel capacity: 1200 l Load capacity: 1500 kg Length: 12.4 m Wingspan: 18.2 m Height: 4.1 m The future park also features the GAZ-63, a light truck with all-wheel drive, produced from 1948 to 1968. Its purpose was to provide reliable transportation in difficult on- and off-road conditions. The GAZ-63 was one of the first Soviet cars with permanent all-wheel drive. This design provided excellent performance in mud, snow, and other difficult conditions, which was essential for military and civilian needs. The car was produced in Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), which was one of the most important centers of the automotive industry in the Soviet Union. The GAZ-63 was equipped with a 6-cylinder gasoline engine that produced about 70 horsepower. This engine was economical for its time and reliable in various operating conditions. The GAZ-63 was widely used both in the Soviet army and in the civilian sector - in forestry, agriculture, and road construction. Its simple design allowed it to be quickly repaired and maintained even in remote regions. A glider produced during the Soviet era is on display. The Park of the Future also houses the "Time Machine" antiques repository and workshop, where various artifacts can be viewed, including a special pilot's suit designed for flights involving overloads, and other items related to the Soviet era. At the end of the tour, you can taste the products produced at the "Park of the Future" at "Nordcrunch".

The "Future Park" (Nākotnes parks) is located south of the village of Nākotne, in Latvia. The Future Park you will find the Soviet-made Antonov AN-2. It was primarily designed as a multi-purpose civil aircraft, but was also used for military purposes. It first flew in 1947 and was a very versatile aircraft with excellent short take-off and landing capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of roles, including military ones. Military use of the aircraft included: Transportation of troops and soldiers to hard-to-reach places; Parachutist training and transportation; Providing logistics and supplies, such as delivering food, ammunition, and medical equipment to combat zones; Maintaining communications between different military units; Patrol flights and reconnaissance. Due to its simple design and reliability, the AN-2 was suitable for operation in field conditions that did not require a well-developed infrastructure. The aircraft's endurance and ability to fly at low altitudes made it very useful in a variety of climatic conditions, including conflicts involving the Soviet Union or its allies. The aircraft was used in many countries, including Eastern Europe and Asia, where it served not only civil but also military forces. AN-2 technical data: Crew: 2 Passenger capacity: up to 12 Maximum speed: 225 km/h Cruising speed: 180 km/h Maximum take-off weight: 5250 kg Maximum flight distance: 1200 km Maximum flight duration: 7 h Fuel capacity: 1200 l Load capacity: 1500 kg Length: 12.4 m Wingspan: 18.2 m Height: 4.1 m The future park also features the GAZ-63, a light truck with all-wheel drive, produced from 1948 to 1968. Its purpose was to provide reliable transportation in difficult on- and off-road conditions. The GAZ-63 was one of the first Soviet cars with permanent all-wheel drive. This design provided excellent performance in mud, snow, and other difficult conditions, which was essential for military and civilian needs. The car was produced in Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), which was one of the most important centers of the automotive industry in the Soviet Union. The GAZ-63 was equipped with a 6-cylinder gasoline engine that produced about 70 horsepower. This engine was economical for its time and reliable in various operating conditions. The GAZ-63 was widely used both in the Soviet army and in the civilian sector - in forestry, agriculture, and road construction. Its simple design allowed it to be quickly repaired and maintained even in remote regions. A glider produced during the Soviet era is on display. The Park of the Future also houses the "Time Machine" antiques repository and workshop, where various artifacts can be viewed, including a special pilot's suit designed for flights involving overloads, and other items related to the Soviet era. At the end of the tour, you can taste the products produced at the "Park of the Future" at "Nordcrunch".

The "Future park" (Nākotnes parks) is located south of the village of Nākotne. In "Future park" you will find the Soviet-made Antonov AN-2. It was primarily designed as a multi-purpose civil aircraft, but was also used for military purposes. It first flew in 1947 and was a very versatile aircraft with excellent short take-off and landing capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of roles, including military ones. Military use of the aircraft included: Transportation of troops and soldiers to hard-to-reach places; Parachutist training and transportation; Providing logistics and supplies, such as delivering food, ammunition, and medical equipment to combat zones; Maintaining communications between different military units; Patrol flights and reconnaissance. Due to its simple design and reliability, the AN-2 was suitable for operation in field conditions that did not require a well-developed infrastructure. The aircraft's endurance and ability to fly at low altitudes made it very useful in a variety of climatic conditions, including conflicts involving the Soviet Union or its allies. The aircraft was used in many countries, including Eastern Europe and Asia, where it served not only civil but also military forces. AN-2 technical data: Crew: 2 Passenger capacity: up to 12 Maximum speed: 225 km/h Cruising speed: 180 km/h Maximum take-off weight: 5250 kg Maximum flight distance: 1200 km Maximum flight duration: 7 h Fuel capacity: 1200 l Load capacity: 1500 kg Length: 12.4 m Wingspan: 18.2 m Height: 4.1 m The future park also features the GAZ-63, a light truck with all-wheel drive, produced from 1948 to 1968. Its purpose was to provide reliable transportation in difficult on- and off-road conditions. The GAZ-63 was one of the first Soviet cars with permanent all-wheel drive. This design provided excellent performance in mud, snow, and other difficult conditions, which was essential for military and civilian needs. The car was produced in Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), which was one of the most important centers of the automotive industry in the Soviet Union. The GAZ-63 was equipped with a 6-cylinder gasoline engine that produced about 70 horsepower. This engine was economical for its time and reliable in various operating conditions. The GAZ-63 was widely used both in the Soviet army and in the civilian sector - in forestry, agriculture, and road construction. Its simple design allowed it to be quickly repaired and maintained even in remote regions. A glider produced during the Soviet era is on display. The Park of the Future also houses the "Time Machine" antiques repository and workshop, where various artifacts can be viewed, including a special pilot's suit designed for flights involving overloads, and other items related to the Soviet era. At the end of the tour, you can taste the products produced at the "Park of the Future" at "Nordcrunch".

Šī gada 7. februārī plkst, 14.30 uz galvenās skatuves starptautiskajā izstādē “Balttour 2025” Juris Smaļinskis no Lauku ceļotāja stāstīs par to, ko esam veikuši Militārā mantojuma tūrisma jomā Baltijas valstīs. Izstāde-gadatirgus Balttour

The historical exhibit ‘Fire of Conscience’ is located in Cēsis, near the Cēsis Castle Square. Established in a Soviet-era temporary detention facility, it tells about the occupation of Latvia and reveals surprising and heroic stories of resistance from individuals. The yard features a memorial wall with the names of 643 residents of the former Cēsis district who died in Soviet repressions, including national partisans deported in 1941 and 1949 and those shot and sentenced to death. The exhibit’s timeline encourages visitors to study the course of the occupation of Latvia from 1939 to 1957. Arranged by topics, quotes from local newspapers offer a comparison of the political propaganda of the two occupation regimes. The six cells for temporary detention have survived to the present day in their original form from 1940 to 1941 and the post-war years.

Līgatne bunker. One of the most impressive objects of the Cold War in the Baltic States.

Together with Lithuanian and Estonian project partners, we have prepared a new Military Heritage tourism map. Now the map includes all the Baltic countries, 240 objects are placed on the map. In Latvia, objects have been added to Latgale and Zemgale/Selija regions. Each object has an address, GPS coordinates and belonging to someone from the 20th century historical periods. They are: First and Second World War, Wars of Independence, Independence of the Baltic States, Movement of National Partisans - Forest Brothers, Soviet Occupation and Cold War and Restored Independence.

The short days, which have obviously become longer and brighter, are a good time for a hike on MANGAĻSALA. It will be a good continuation of the walk along the BALTIC COASTAL TRAIL. Mangalsala is rich in military heritage and suitable for nature observation. We leave only the underground parts of the bunkers for the summer, because now bats are hibernating in them.

In the beginning of January, reconstruction of the so called Christmas battles ⚔️ took place, which shows how two Latvian 🇱🇻 rifle brigades took Ložmetējkalns during the First World War. Many children and young people also participated in the reconstruction event, for whom it is important to learn history not only from books, but also in nature! #militaryheritage #latlit #militaryheritagetourism #interreg #militaryhistory #latvianhistory

A new military heritage tourism attraction in Riga! The communications bunker is located in Riga, in Vecmīlgrāvis, it is a historical object built during the Soviet era, which initially served as a reserve control point for the October district of that time and at the same time - the civil defense headquarters of the Riga Ship Repair Factory. It was created to provide governance for the Northern District in the event of an emergency such as a nuclear war or natural disaster. The bunker had everything necessary for autonomous operation: communication nodes for communication with other important objects, independent electricity and water supply, as well as rooms for the protection of people. After the end of the Soviet era, the bunker was neglected and looted, but in recent years it has been carefully restored by a group of local enthusiasts and transformed into the Civil Defense Museum "Communications Bunker". The museum's exposition offers authentic working rooms, communication equipment, protective equipment, historical documents and maps, which allow visitors to get to know the civil defense system of the Cold War era and feel the atmosphere of that time. It is a unique journey through time that will delight both history buffs and those looking for the unusual. The museum regularly organizes excursion days, during which visitors can get acquainted with the history of the bunker and its importance. To visit the museum, it is recommended to apply for a tour in advance or follow upcoming events on the museum's official pages on social networks.

Let’s meet this weekend at the Adventur exhibition – visit Lietuvos kaimo turizmo asociacija stand! We’re excited to present our project, which shows that military heritage can be not only fascinating but also an inspiring travel theme. What awaits you? ✔ The latest information about military heritage sites – from forts and bunkers to museums and historic landmarks. ✔ Engaging stories that reveal the importance of our past in today’s world. ✔ Useful maps and tips on how to include these sites in your travel plans. We invite you to see history from a fresh perspective and plan unforgettable trips! Stop by, let’s chat, and we’ll help you enrich your travels with exciting new ideas. Strong yesterday – free today! Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme #latlit #interreg #militaryheritage #heritagetourism #militaryheritagetourism

A few more pictures from the torchlight procession on January 11 from Mangali house to Lozhmetējkalns.

Par militāro mantojumu un tūrismu Latvijas TV ziņās. Sižeta saite pirmajā komentārā.

Military Heritage Tourism product and new Baltic Military Heritage Travel Map presented at international trade fair Green Week (Grüne Woche) in Berlin, Germany 🇩🇪 #military #militaryheritage #tourism #grünewoche #berlin Interreg Latvia - Lithuania Programme

The traditional torchlight procession from Mangaļi House to Ložmetējkalns. A look back at the January 11 event.

Pagājušo nedēļ Latvijas Kara muzejā notika “Lauku ceļotāja” organizētā starptautiskā konference, kuras mērķis bija veicināt sadarbību starp vēsturniekiem, skolām un tūrisma nozares pārstāvjiem, kā arī dalīties pieredzē par to, kā padarīt vēstures stāstus aktuālus mūsdienu jauniešiem un starptautiskai auditorijai. Konferences runātāji pārstāvēja Aukstā kara muzeju Stevnsfortā, Dānijā, Nīderlandes Kultūras mantojuma aģentūru, Aukstā kara mantojuma tīklu Apvienotajā Karalistē, Ziemas kara muzeju Raatteen Portti, Somijā, Visit Flanders Beļģijā, un militārā mantojuma ekspedīciju kompāniju Apvienotajā Karalistē. Pēc prezentācijām notika diskusija, kuru vadīja vēsurnieks Valdis Kuzmins. Tiem, kam nebija iespēja atnākt klātienē – esam salikuši gan prezentāciju slaidus, gan video savā lapā, kur tās var noskatīties un noklausīties: https://www.celotajs.lv/lv/news/item/view/1375 Estonia-Latvia Programme Foto: Juris Smaļinskis