Anton Austrins Memorial Museum “Kaikaši”

Since 1990, the memorial museum has been open in “Lejas Kaikaši” in Vecpiebalga parish, the birthplace of the writer Anton Austriņš (1884-1934). Here you can delve into his life and literary legacy, and feel the spirit of the times that shaped his personality.

The museum also displays the rich collection of solar images by Anton Austriņš’ daughter, the cultural worker and exiled writer Mudīte Austriņa (1924 -1991), which she made while living in different countries and encountering different national traditions. The collection is a unique reflection of her life story and spiritual heritage, allowing us to see the sun as a universal symbol in humanity’s sense of the world.

The village of Kaikaši, where the museum is located, preserves the everyday stories of the ancient people of Piebaldziai. The partially preserved buildings of six farmsteads, the patterns of roads and paths remind us of the historical rhythm of life of the local community – the work of farmers, the daily life of fishermen, the skills of craftsmen and the ways of traders.

The Solstice Room creates a special atmosphere, where photographs reveal the magic of the shortest nights of the year. The moments captured by the photographer A. Šulcs allow you to feel the magic of the solstice and the continuity of traditions that unite generations.

The museum is suitable for small groups and offers themed programmes for up to 20 people. Guests are welcome to try:

Old Names Game – see how well you can remember Piebalga’s place names and words from the past.

Creative workshop “Saulītes” – create works with solar motifs, inspired by folk signs and the collection of Mudīte Austriņa.

Photo Orienteering – an exciting game of searching in the museum using images as clues (especially suitable for children).

Vecpiebalga Hiking Game – 4 km adventure with your phone in hand! Take an educational walk through the centre of Vecpiebalga and get to know the cultural space of Vecpiebalga.

A visit to “Kaikaši” is a journey that combines knowledge with feelings. It is a place to find peace, listen to the voice of nature, remember your roots and recharge yourself with the atmosphere of Piebalga.

“The house is not only a shelter, a shelter against the rain and the wind, it also contains a crystal of the very soul of the people.”
(A. Austriņš)

PRICES

Entrance fee: 2,50 € (cash only)
Discounts: seniors, students and families with children.

Photo from the archive of the Piebalgs Museum Association “Orisāre”.