House of Crafts

The House of Crafts in Ventspils is a lively centre dedicated to preserving the region’s traditional skills and everyday artistry. Housed in a restored historic building in the Old Town, it brings together workshops, exhibitions, and demonstrations that reveal how local craftsmen shaped community life long before industrialisation. Visitors can watch artisans at work in the weaving room, where looms recreate patterns once common in Kurzeme’s rural households, or explore the pottery studio, which continues the centuries‑old tradition of hand‑thrown ceramics. One of the most interesting features is the recreated printing workshop, where a functioning letterpress shows how books, posters, and documents were produced in the early 20th century. This hands‑on space highlights the role of small local printshops in spreading knowledge and culture. The House of Crafts also hosts seasonal events celebrating folk customs, from midsummer wreath‑making to traditional baking. Its mission is not only to display objects but to keep skills alive, offering visitors the chance to try techniques themselves. Today it stands as a vibrant link between Ventspils’ past and present, showing how craftsmanship continues to shape the city’s cultural identity.