Skaistkalne Roman Catholic church

This church, which is built by The Society of Jesus (as known as Jesuits), is the most outstanding architectural monument of the early Baroque style and until 18th of the century it was the biggest and the most astounding catholic church in Latvia.
The construction works of the church started in the 17th century, thanks to several local financiers. In the 1692, when construction ended, the church was set up in extraordinary baroque- style luxury, dedicated to Blessed Virgin Mary in Heaven – whereas Latvia had not experienced before. The year – 1692 - is also seen right now, above the central door of the church, next to the motto of the Society of Jesus «AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM» (For the Greater Glory of God).
Over the centuries, the church has been damaged, especially during the World War I and World War II, when the second tower of the church has been crushed down.
In 2022 and 2023 the church has been restored, the towers which were destroyed during the Second World War now are restored, the roof covering are changed, as well as the facade of the building are refreshed.
Skaistkalne Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Heaven Roman Catholic church is the second largest pilgrimage destination after Aglona, ​​welcoming hundreds of pilgrims and tourists every year. From 2021 it is also more widely known as a pilgrimage stop on the international pilgrimage route St. James Way or Camino de Santiago.
The church is open every day, from 7:00 until 22:00 o’clock. The worship is held on Working days at 19:00 o’clock, on Sunday and state holiday at 12:00 o’clock.
Guided excursions are available - visitors have the opportunity to go on a tour, listen to the stories about history of the church and look into the church tombs. Group tours must be by prior arrangement!