Swedish gate of Priekule
The exact construction year of the gates is unknown, but it might have been shortly before 1688. This date is visible above the gate's arch. Additionally, the Swedish Gates are adorned with the coats of arms of both the Korff and Redern families, suggesting that their construction is associated with these two lineages.
One of the owners of the Priekule Manor, Friedrich Heinrich von Korff (1626–1683 or 1684), was married to Helena Eleonora von Redern (her life dates are unknown). In 1683, Friedrich Heinrich von Korff wrote a will granting his widow, Helena Eleonora von Redern, the right to manage Priekule, Asīte, and Lepaici Manor in Smagaiten (Samogitia) during her lifetime. She was the only woman to ever manage the Priekule Manor's economy throughout its history.
The late 17th century was a very turbulent and tense time, on the eve of the Great Northern War (1700–1721). Sweden had gained significant influence in the Baltic Sea region, frequently invading neighboring lands, seizing privately-owned manors (manor reduction), or imposing heavy taxes. Since the Korffs of Priekule maintained good relations with the King of Poland, Priekule also suffered during Swedish attacks.
Although Priekule Castle was located in a naturally protected area (peat bogs, a small river), in 1655, another invasion, occupation, and heavy taxes (contributions in kind or money) impacted both the manor and its peasants. Therefore, it was impossible to leave Priekule without close supervision, and additional defense measures had to be considered. This might have been the reason for constructing the Swedish Gates. Alternatively, this building may have served a different purpose, such as functioning as a border checkpoint. At that time, three roads intersected at this location: Priekule–Purmsāti, Priekule–Vaiņode, and Priekule–Liepāja/Riga. In the 17th century, these areas were considered ‘foreign lands,’ so border crossings likely required the payment of customs fees.
A legend tells that Baron Korff ordered craftsmen to construct a secret passage and a niche in the outer Swedish Gate doorframe, where valuables and money could be hidden. Later, the builders of the gate reportedly met various tragic ends. A secret passage allegedly led from the old castle to the Swedish Gates and then emerged above ground. The treasures are said to be retrievable only at specific times, but so far, no one has succeeded in finding them.