Twinned with the Estonian town of Valga, Valka is a small Latvian settlement in the country’s far north. It was first mentioned in the 13th century but didn’t rise to prominence until a Vidzeme teacher’s seminary was established here in the late 19th century. In 1920, the border between Estonia and Latvia was delineated between Valka and Varga before all of the fences were removed in 2007.
Things to do in Valka
Learn about the people, industries and events that have shaped the town at the Valka Local History Museum, which occupies a 19th-century building of the Vidzeme Teacher’s Seminary. Learn about the cultural legacy of Jānis Cimze, who was the first director of the seminary and whose sculptures are now on display. The museum also hosts changing exhibitions that delve into Valka’s past.
One of Valka’s most important religious landmarks is St. Catherine’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, a whitewashed building topped by a red spire. From the top of its bell tower, there are magnificent views across the town. Also of note is the modern Church of the Iberian Mother of God designed in a traditional Russian architectural style.
From the Putraskalns lookout, you can admire the church spires of both Valka and Valga across the border in Estonia. Coincide your visit with a performance at the open-air theatre nearby, with the Pedele River running between the stage and the audience. Within the park is the iconic “Kokle Player”, a large stone sculpture that depicts a man playing a traditional Latvian zither.
Getting around Valka
Valka is around two hours’ drive from Riga and 2.5 hours from Riga International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular buses connect to Valka and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.