From the first day of its foundation, the beautiful city of Jurmala has won the love and recognition of wealthy residents of Latvia who wanted to have summer residences here. Everyone tried to build an architectural masterpiece and surpass neighbors in luxury and grandeur. Hence the diverse architecture of the resort city. But although all the local mansions are spectacular, there is one especially notable building. It was created by the famous architect and philanthropist Kristaps Morbergs.

Coming from a poor family, he was so hungry for fame and wealth that he moved from his hometown to prosperous Berlin. He mastered the construction business, garnered the support of the most powerful people, and then returned to his homeland, beginning to apply his knowledge there. Morberg designed many houses and municipal buildings, but only the summer cottage complex created for his family became the hallmark of his career and glorified his name far beyond Latvia.

The summer cottage complex of Kristaps Morbergs and his beautiful wife Augusta remains the most beautiful building in Jurmala that harmoniously fits into the more modest appearance of other city buildings. The bizarre-shaped turrets with openwork grating and high lancet windows resemble a fairy-tale castle. The building was originally built of wood, and the metal plates that cover the walls today appeared after a thorough restoration.

The interior of the complex is no less impressive. The walls are covered with hand-painted wallpaper with plant patterns popular in the 19th century. Colorful stained glass windows let in the rays of the amber southern sun, illuminating antique furniture and authentic artworks.

The architectural complex is complemented by a charming botanical garden with a greenhouse of exotic plants and traceried wrought-iron gazebos. Mr. Morbergs and his wife were not only connoisseurs of Gothic architecture but also lovers of landscape art. They took care of the garden themselves and later bequeathed it along with the whole summer cottage complex to the University of Latvia.