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Founded: 1855Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Latvia
Historical period: Part of the Russian Empire (Latvia)
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Kalma manor was built as a hunting lodge for Baron Fedor von Medem after he acquired the estate in 1855. It was quickly repaired after being damaged by fire in 1905. Between 1906 and 1912, it was restored according to the project of architect G. Berchi. The most recent restoration was completed in 2004, the building then being made available for public event rentals. A museum with exhibits on milk production is located in one of the other estate buildings.
References:Sirmione castle was built near the end of the 12th century as part of a defensive network surrounding Verona. The castle was maintained and extended first as part of the Veronese protection against their rivals in Milan and later under the control of the Venetian inland empire. The massive fortress is totally surrounded by water and has an inner porch which houses a Roman and Medieval lapidary. From the drawbridge, a staircase leads to the walkways above the walls, providing a marvellous view of the harbour that once sheltered the Scaliger fleet. The doors were fitted with a variety of locking systems, including a drawbridge for horses, carriages and pedestrians, a metal grate and, more recently, double hinged doors. Venice conquered Sirmione in 1405, immediately adopting provisions to render the fortress even more secure, fortifying its outer walls and widening the harbour.
Thanks to its strategical geographical location as a border outpost, Sirmione became a crucial defence and control garrison for the ruling nobles, retaining this function until the 16th century, when its role was taken up by Peschiera del Garda.