Vārtāja Hillfort

Gaviezes pagasts, Dienvidkurzemes novads
GPS: 56.488483, 21.381673

The hillfort is one of the largest in South Kurzeme, located on the right bank of the Vārtāja River. It features multiple ramparts, ditches, and terraces. At the hill’s flat summit (approximately 5,000 m²), there is a natural spring, and the peak bears remnants of wartime trenches.

Archaeological excavations carried out in 1963 revealed that the hillfort and its surrounding ancient settlement (spanning 500 meters around the hillfort) were inhabited from the 5th to the 13th century. Excavations uncovered remnants of dwellings, ceramic fragments, stone stove foundations with clay superstructures, wooden stakes, and small bronze items.

The hillfort rises on the right bank of the Vārtāja Valley and is covered by a cluster of trees. The name "Vārtāja" originates from the ancient Baltic languages, where varra means "water."

The hillfort and its castle are mentioned in Deitleps Anpeke's Chronicle of the Rennians (1853) in the chapter about the Battle of Durbe (1260).

This article is sourced from the Gavieze Antiquities Repository and authored by Alma Kāle.

Visiting Recommendations
Ancient hillforts are best visited during autumn or, ideally, spring when the trees have shed their leaves, allowing a clearer view of the site. Additionally, access is more convenient in spring, as tall grass does not obstruct pathways. In the colder seasons, visitors can enjoy nature without being bothered by insects such as mosquitoes and horseflies.
Please cherish nature and treat animals, plants, and cultural-historical sites with respect.