The museum occupies the historic Dole Manor, which was partially destroyed during World War I and later renovated.
The site sits on Dole Island, which was once home to a major salmon fishing industry using specialized wooden weirs.
Exhibits include evidence of the 'Dole culture,' a specific regional archaeological classification.
The museum grounds contain a large collection of traditional Daugava fishing gear and wooden watercraft.
The park features a protected botanical area with centuries-old trees and diverse local flora.
The museum records the significant impact of the Riga Hydroelectric Power Plant construction on local geography and culture.
The Daugava Museum is situated on Dole Island in the middle of the Daugava River, focusing on the history of Latvia's largest river and the surrounding region. The museum is housed within a restored 19th-century manor house of the Dole estate. Exhibits trace human settlement along the Daugava from the Stone Age to the present. The collection features artifacts related to traditional salmon and lamprey fishing, which were historically vital to the island's economy. Visitors can explore the preserved park grounds, which include ruins of the old manor and various outdoor monuments. The site provides context on the major hydro-engineering projects that transformed the river's landscape during the 20th century. It remains an active site for research into regional archaeology and ethnographic heritage.
The front facade of the restored Dole Manor framed by the surrounding park trees.
Explore the outdoor park area along the riverbank, which is as significant as the indoor exhibits.
Check the schedule for temporary outdoor events or seasonal historical reenactments hosted in the manor gardens.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the gravel paths of the manor park.
Do not attempt to walk through the restricted research zones or unmarked wooded areas within the park.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the off-season; check for winter closures.
