Latgale, Latvia
Discover centuries of history in one of Latvia's finest Classical palaces, built in 1783 for Count Michał Jan Borch.
The Varakļāni District Museum has been located in the historic palace of Count Michał Jan Borch since 1997. Officially established in 2001, the museum promotes the rich cultural heritage of Varakļāni District.
The palace itself is an outstanding example of early Classicism in Latvian architecture, designed by Italian architect Vincenzo Macotti and built between 1783 and 1789. Valued murals and painted ceilings from the 18th and 19th centuries have been discovered and preserved on the premises.
Today, visitors can explore palace interiors, the historic chapel, and permanent exhibitions on the life and scientific achievements of Count Borch, as well as the fascinating history of Varakļāni and its surroundings.
Linguist · Ethnographer · Scholar of Latgale
1905 – 1991
Born in Varakļāni Parish, Dr. Leonards Latkovskis became one of the most distinguished scholars of the Latgalian language and culture. A remarkable polyglot who mastered 18 languages, he dedicated his life to preserving and documenting the unique heritage of Latgale.
Latkovskis studied at the University of Latvia (1926–1935), earning degrees in Classical Philology, Baltic Philology, and History. In 1931, he published groundbreaking research on the dialects of the Varakļāni district—work that remains valuable to linguists today.
Following World War II, Latkovskis and his family fled Soviet occupation, eventually settling in the United States. There, he continued his scholarly work as a professor at Bellarmine College in Louisville, Kentucky, teaching classics, history, comparative linguistics, and literature. In 1960, he co-founded the Latgale Research Institute and served as its president, ensuring that Latgalian culture and language would be studied and preserved for future generations.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Bellarmine College awarded him an honorary doctorate in 1976. A memorial plaque at the entrance of Varakļāni Palace honours his legacy, and the museum maintains a permanent exhibition celebrating his life and work.
"A tireless champion of Latgalian heritage whose scholarship bridged continents and generations."
After the Livonian War, the von der Borch family acquires the Varakļāni estate, then known as "Warkland."
Michał Jan Borch, renowned naturalist, diplomat, and future builder of the palace, is born in Varakļāni.
Italian architect Vincenzo Macotti designs and builds the palace, creating one of the first Classicist buildings in Latvia.
The palace chapel is built according to Macotti's design, adding to the architectural splendor of the estate.
Major conservation works begin, revealing stunning original murals and painted ceilings hidden for decades.
The Varakļāni District Museum opens in the palace on September 13th, welcoming visitors to explore its heritage.
Experience the grandeur of 18th-century aristocratic life through beautifully preserved rooms, original murals, and painted ceilings.
Learn about the remarkable life and scientific achievements of Michał Jan Borch—naturalist, diplomat, and visionary builder.
Visit the 1814 chapel designed by Vincenzo Macotti, a serene space reflecting the spiritual life of the estate.
Explore the rich history of Varakļāni town and its surroundings through documents, photographs, and artifacts.
View a curated collection of paintings and decorative arts from the Borch family collection and regional artists.
Stroll through the romantic landscape garden, one of the first of its kind in Latvia, designed by Count Borch himself.
For inquiries about visits, educational programmes, venue rental, or any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Official Website