Of the Livonian Order castle in Dobel, built around the middle of the 14th century, only ruins remain today. According to historical chronicles, construction was begun in 1335. The castle was built of stone for the needs of the Livonian Order. However, shortly after the construction of the castle began, the construction was suspended and was not continued until 1345.
It is believed that on the site of Dobel Castle in the early 13th century there was a wooden Zemgale fortress. After the Crusaders took over the lands that had passed to the to the Livonian Order, the area where the wooden castle stood was the perfect place to build a new stronghold. Especially as the wooden castle had by then already been burnt down by the Zemgals themselves, who had retreated to Lithuania.
Dobel castle consisted of four buildings surrounding an inner courtyard. There was also a chapel attached to the Castle there was also a chapel. On the western side, next to the quadrangular tower, there was an entrance gate.
Throughout its history, the castle has repeatedly been at the centre of battles between different forces. One of the most serious battles was fought in 1620, in which the Dobelský Castle was captured by the Swedish army. Dobel Castle was captured by the Swedish forces of Gustav Adolf. In the period from 1643 to 1649, the castle was the home of Elisabeth Magdalena, the widow of Duke Frederick. Dobel Castle was also affected by the Great Northern War, during which the castle again became a battlefield. During this period, the castle was visited for several days by King of Sweden Charles XII.
There is more than one legend associated with the castle. For example, it has not yet been possible to discover underground passages. According to legend, one of them passed under the Berze River and led to its other bank, and the second underground passage went out to Lielberze.
Over the entire period of the castle's existence, it was rebuilt and expanded several times. The castle fell into complete disrepair in 1730. By that time it was had become so dilapidated that it was abandoned. The roof collapsed and the castle has not been restored since. rebuilt.
Today, the castle walls are mothballed, in order to prevent their from further deterioration. This work began in 2001. Partially the walls of the castle have been preserved, as well as the walls of the church, which are up to 20 metres high. The ruins of the castle are quite a romantic place, it is one of the favourite places for photography. Various festivals and events are often held here and events are often held here.
It is believed that there are hidden treasures in the castle. Mysterious and unexplained events mysterious and inexplicable happenings here.
There is another interesting legend. Once the roof of the castle was copper. In sunny weather, the sparkle of the roof could be seen from afar. Legend has it that sailors travelling to Ventspils mistook the glittering roof for a lighthouse and, guided by it, they crashed on the cliffs. This happened more than once, and the sailors cursed the copper roof. And one day, a hurricane blew the roof into the sea.
