As part of the project “Digital Tourism in Crafts”, a series of ten video films titled “Traditional Skills in Latgale” has been created. These inspiring and heartfelt stories of master artisans not only preserve traditional craftsmanship but also highlight the cultural richness of the Latgale region.
The aim of the series is to introduce audiences of all ages to traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations. Each film serves as both an educational and cultural experience, showcasing how these timeless skills can still find relevance and application in today’s world.
Whether you are looking to discover a new skill, connect with your roots, or simply explore the depth of regional craftsmanship, these films offer a meaningful journey into traditions that continue to shape Latgale’s identity.
A new episode is released every Wednesday for 10 weeks, starting April 30, on the YouTube channel of the Latgale Planning Region—bringing the premiere right into your home.
Traditional Skills in Latgale – Film Series:
- Dyeing Yarn with Plants
- Making Musical Instruments
- Knitting with Beads
- Processing Hemp Fibers
- Embroidery
- Crocheting
- Soap Making
- Making Stained Glass
- Wood Carving
- Bobbin Lace Making
Come and explore the Latgale and Aukštaitija regions—where centuries-old crafts are still alive, and there’s always something new to learn!
By the end of 2025, visitors to Latgale (Latvia) and Aukštaitija (Lithuania) will have the opportunity to discover various aspects of traditional crafts through digital exhibitions, including:
- Latgalian farmstead at the Daugavpils House of Traditions
- Wooden architecture and woodcarving at the Krāslava Castle complex
- Ceramics at the Anīkščiai Art Incubator – Art Gallery
- Flax weaving and traditional folk musical instruments in the Upīte village, Panevėžys district
This project aims to promote the digitalization of cultural heritage and open new avenues for the promotion of crafts, both locally and internationally.
The project “Digital crafts tourism” (acronym D-tour; No LL-00100) is co-funded by the European Union. The project is implemented within the Interreg VI-A Latvia-Lithuania Programme 2021-2027.
The total project budget is EUR 697 275. The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund with EUR 557 820.
Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027 aims to enhance the sustainable and cohesive socioeconomic development of its regions by fostering competitiveness and attractiveness for residents, students, workers, and visitors alike, thereby creating environments conducive to living, studying, working, and visiting.
Programme website: http://www.latlit.eu. About the project: latlit.eu/theprojects/d-tour/.
This publication has been produced with the financial assistance of the European Union. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the Latgale Planning Region and does not necessarily represent the official position of the European Parliament.
Project manager: Sarmīte Teivāne, +371 65423801, e-mail: sarmite.teivane@lpr.gov.lv, Latgale Planning Region.
