Mara Manor

Mara Manor is a cultural heritage site, mentioned in documents as early as the 16th century. Over time, it has had multiple owners, and today the manor’s territory has been significantly reduced.

Of the original 12 buildings in the manor complex, only two remain – the manor house and the granary. From the original 16th-century building, the cellars from the Livonian Order period have been preserved. In 1750, the manor house was built on top of these cellars in Baroque style, and it has remained largely unchanged to the present day.

The manor also experienced tragic events in 1905 when the manor house was set on fire. Although the fire did not significantly damage the building – only the roof floor burned – it was restored in 1908. That is why today, after the restoration of the Mara Manor house in 2006, the interior still features remarkable historical elements and objects – such as staircases, enfilades, the fireplace, stoves, old floors and doors, as well as fragments of ceiling paintings.

During the Soviet period, the manor was used for various purposes. It housed the Basu village council, a pharmacy, a cultural center, and even eight apartments for collective farm workers.

Throughout its history, the manor has had a total of 10 owners, including the current owners of Mara Manor, Verner Hartingers and Ilga Pranča-Hartinger. Each owner has left their mark on the manor, telling the story of the building’s life.

The manor buildings are surrounded by a beautiful park, home to around 50 different bird species. The park also features older trees and shrubs, as well as a charming garden.

It is possible to stay overnight at the manor, accommodating up to 11 guests, enjoying the charm of the historic manor and countryside, waking up to birdsong and sunrise.

A new addition at Mara Manor is two sea buckthorn plantations, created in scenic locations.

From 2024, various sea buckthorn products will be available for purchase at Mara Manor, such as juice, jam, and liqueur.