Latgale, Latvia

Varakļāni District Museum

Discover centuries of history in one of Latvia's finest Classical palaces, built in 1783 for Count Michał Jan Borch.

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Varakļāni Palace exterior
About the Museum

A Masterpiece of Classicism in the Heart of Latgale

The Varakļāni District Museum has been located in the historic palace of Count Michał Jan Borch since 1997. Officially established in 2001, the museum promotes the rich cultural heritage of Varakļāni District.

The palace itself is an outstanding example of early Classicism in Latvian architecture, designed by Italian architect Vincenzo Macotti and built between 1783 and 1789. Valued murals and painted ceilings from the 18th and 19th centuries have been discovered and preserved on the premises.

Today, visitors can explore palace interiors, the historic chapel, and permanent exhibitions on the life and scientific achievements of Count Borch, as well as the fascinating history of Varakļāni and its surroundings.

1783
Palace Founded
240+
Years of History
1997
Museum Opened
Timeline

A Journey Through Time

1583

The Borch Family Arrives

After the Livonian War, the von der Borch family acquires the Varakļāni estate, then known as "Warkland."

1753

Count Borch is Born

Michał Jan Borch, renowned naturalist, diplomat, and future builder of the palace, is born in Varakļāni.

1783–1789

Palace Construction

Italian architect Vincenzo Macotti designs and builds the palace, creating one of the first Classicist buildings in Latvia.

1814

Chapel Completed

The palace chapel is built according to Macotti's design, adding to the architectural splendor of the estate.

1980s

Conservation Begins

Major conservation works begin, revealing stunning original murals and painted ceilings hidden for decades.

1997

Museum Opens

The Varakļāni District Museum opens in the palace on September 13th, welcoming visitors to explore its heritage.

Exhibitions

What to Discover

Palace Interiors

Experience the grandeur of 18th-century aristocratic life through beautifully preserved rooms, original murals, and painted ceilings.

Count Borch Exhibition

Learn about the remarkable life and scientific achievements of Michał Jan Borch—naturalist, diplomat, and visionary builder.

Historic Chapel

Visit the 1814 chapel designed by Vincenzo Macotti, a serene space reflecting the spiritual life of the estate.

Local History

Explore the rich history of Varakļāni town and its surroundings through documents, photographs, and artifacts.

Art Collection

View a curated collection of paintings and decorative arts from the Borch family collection and regional artists.

Manor Park

Stroll through the romantic landscape garden, one of the first of its kind in Latvia, designed by Count Borch himself.

Notable Visit

Presidential Visit

3. jūlijs, 2025

On July 3, 2025, Varakļāni District Museum was honoured to welcome President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs, who visited the museum on his return journey from the State Border Guard College graduation ceremony.

"Latvija ir skaista, tajā ir daudz apslēptu dārgumu. Šodien atklāju vēl vienu pērli. Atceļā no Valsts robežsardzes koledžas izlaiduma viesojos Varakļānu Novada muzejā. Paldies muzeja darbiniekiem un Varakļānu iedzīvotājiem par laipno sagaidīšanu un interesanto stāstījumu, un darbu pils atjaunošanā un restaurācijā! Neiztika arī bez leģendārā 'Varakļouni pīci, pīci'."
— Edgars Rinkēvičs, Latvijas Valsts prezidents
Varakļānu Palace exterior during President's visit
President Rinkēvičs with museum staff
President viewing Varakļānu exhibits
President Rinkēvičs meeting local residents
President viewing historical costume exhibit
President examining heraldic display
Plan Ahead

Visit the Museum

Opening Hours

Summer Season June 1 – October 15
Sundays: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Off-Season Visits Available by appointment
Contact us to arrange
Group Tours Guided tours available
For schools & groups by arrangement

Getting Here

Address 29 Pils Street
Varakļāni, LV-4838
Madona Municipality, Latvia
By Car Located near the old Riga–Rēzekne road
Free parking available
Tourist Information The museum also serves as the
Varakļāni Tourist Information Centre

Find Us

Varakļāni is located in the Latgale region of eastern Latvia, approximately 180 km from Riga.

Get in Touch

Contact Us

For inquiries about visits, educational programmes, venue rental, or any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Email [email protected]
Phone +371 29 359 242
Director Terese Korsaka
Official Website