The soul of Latvia is revealed in the typical rural farmyard, where one lives in harmony with nature's laws and rhythms. It is a place where ancient traditions are respected and annual festivals are joyously celebrated.

On Ligo eve (Summer solstice) the traditional bonfire is lit in almost every yard. Ligotaji (the celebrants of the festival) who, during the day have gathered colorful Janu zales (field flowers), head off in pairs to seek the legendary secret fern blossom that blooms only once a year on this night. The single family farm is an integral part of the Latvian landscape. Many still look just as they did centuries ago.

The Latvian landscape is also unimaginable without its stately old trees, usually oaks that are several hundred years old and can be found in farmyards as well as in the fields. Here as well, Latvia has become home to 9,000 pairs of white storks. Today, an increasing number of farmers are opening their farms to tourists. More than 100 farms offer bed and breakfast services and a variety of leisure activities.

Text: Valdis Pilats, The Gauja National Park
Photographers: A.Eglitis, J.Pigoznis, V.Pilats, J.Zalans