At the end of October, I embarked on a road trip through Latvia and Lithuania. One of the most memorable stops on my journey was the Automotive Museum in the Latvian town of Bauska. Despite its relatively small collection, this museum captured my attention with its unique charm and fascinating stories. If you’re planning to travel through Latvia, this automotive museum is an absolute must-visit.
A Memorable Experience in the Heart of Bauska
Nestled in the scenic town of Bauska, this automotive museum stands out not for its size but for the character of each vehicle it showcases. Every car in the collection is “alive”—not just in the sense that it’s beautifully maintained, but in that each vehicle comes with its own story. Detailed plaques accompany each car, giving visitors insights into the journey of each vehicle, from its origins to how it came to be part of the museum. This storytelling aspect makes the experience deeply personal and engaging, bringing the history of each car to life.
A Unique Collection of “Living” Automobiles
The Bauska Automotive Museum offers a mix of vintage Soviet cars, classic European models, and even a few rare vehicles. Although it’s a smaller collection compared to larger city museums, each vehicle is unique and well-preserved. Soviet-era models like the Chaika, Volga, and Zaporozhets are showcased here, offering a glimpse into the automotive history of the region. These cars are not just relics; they’re symbols of a different era, and seeing them up close is like stepping back in time.
The dedication to each vehicle’s history is evident. As I wandered through the museum, I found myself lingering at each car, reading the plaques that detailed their backstories. These aren’t just cars—they’re characters with lives of their own, and the museum has done an incredible job of preserving both the vehicles and their individual histories.
Why Visit the Automotive Museum in Bauska?
For anyone who loves cars or history, the Automotive Museum in Bauska offers a unique experience. It’s more than a collection of vehicles—it’s a place that honors the legacy of each car and the stories it carries. Latvia has many hidden gems, and this museum in Bauska is certainly one of them.
If you’re exploring Latvia, I highly recommend making a stop here. The Bauska Automotive Museum is not only a celebration of cars but a true homage to the people, places, and moments that shaped these vehicles.
Useful info
Pros and Cons
(in our opinion)
- Interesting exhibits with “living” history
- Large free parking area
- Affordable entrance tickets
- Limited number of exhibits
- The second floor of the museum is fairly empty
- Exhibits are placed quite close together, making photography difficult
Text & photo by D. Ignatjev
Date of visit: 25 oct. 2024
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