SĪMANIS Boutique Hotel

The hotel is located in the center of Kuldīga, just 200 meters from the Old Town Hall and Town Square, and within a few minutes’ walk to the historic brick bridge, the Venta Rapid, other sightseeing spots, restaurants, and cafés.

All guest rooms are equipped with a seating area, air conditioning, free internet, and all necessary amenities. Each room has a private bathroom, a hairdryer, and bed linens. Guests also have access to a terrace and free parking. Bicycles are available for rent.

“Sīmaņmāja” – one of the oldest and possibly most unique houses in Kuldīga. Historical records indicate that the first building on this site dates back to the time of Duke Jacob. Maps and references from the 16th century show a structure slightly smaller than the current building. The house in its present form appears on old city maps from the early 1800s. Originally, it was a single-story building, possibly used as a horseshoe workshop, located near the town hall and old market square, which at that time relied heavily on horses and carts. Later, an extension was added to the street side, along with a second and third floor. Over time, the extended section of the building sank slightly. During foundation reinforcement, it was discovered that the original foundation consisted of thick oak planks and packed stones. A cannonball found during the restoration can now be seen in the building’s lobby.

At various times, the building has served as a leather-drying facility, a dentist’s office, and a cobbler’s workshop. During the Soviet era, six families lived in the house. For many years prior to its restoration, the building was uninhabited and had fallen into disrepair.

The restoration process was long and meticulous. Before dismantling, all wooden elements were numbered. Foundations were reinforced, wooden structures were reassembled, and damaged parts were replaced with new ones. The upper floors were rebuilt, preserving the building’s original crooked character. The street-facing end of the building has settled about 25 cm over time.

An interesting discovery during renovation revealed a hidden space between the first and second floors in the slanted part of the building, less than a meter high, with an entrance hatch from the second-floor floor—possibly used as a hiding place during World War II. The restoration and renovation of the house took place from 2008 to 2022.

Today, the building has a new lease on life and is ready to welcome guests.