St John's Church (Jāņa baznīca)

The large Gothic church beside the castle dates from the thirteenth century and is one of the oldest surviving churches in Latvia. It was the main church of the Livonian Order in Cesis and served the castle garrison as well as the town. The tower can be climbed for views over the old town rooftops and the Gauja Valley forests.

The interior has been modified over the centuries — the most striking features are the vaulted nave ceiling and the Gothic windows. Restoration work has been ongoing; the church is open to visitors and services are held here.

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