Karosta as an independent city area originated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1890 to the north of Liepāja city the massive construction of fortifications and a military camp was begun. The official order to start building was given by Russian Tsar Alexander III.

His son, Tsar Nicholas II, named the new base Port of Alexander III. But during the time of the first Latvian independence this place was more and more often referred to as the Kara Osta (War Port). The port of Alexander III was a fully autonomous, populated area with its own infrastructure, electricity power plant, sewage system, church and schools.
During the Soviet time Karosta was a closed and covert zone with no admission even for the citizens of Liepāja.
Karosta is a northern neighbourhood which occupies one third of Liepāja city. It is a spectacular, paradoxical and unique site not only in Latvia but also in the world's history and architecture. Its environment reflects the interaction of tsarist Russia military elegance and Soviet militarism. Karosta today is a special neighbourhood. It is not anymore a closed area of a military base but a tourism site with an inspiring environment for creative people as well.
You can reach Karosta by public buses No 1, 3, 4, 7 and 8 or public mini-bus No 22.

Sightseen places in Karosta

KAROSTA VISITOR’S CENTER

Liepāja, Karosta, Invalīdu iela 4, +371 26369470, www.karosta.lv   www.karostascietums.lv   info@karostascietums.lv

Open from 1st Mai till 30th September daily 10:00-18:00

• Tourism information about Karosta and Liepaja;
• Maps, brochures and souvenirs;
• Guided tours around Karosta and Liepaja;
• Bicycle rent and guided velo tours around Karosta;
• Wathcing a film about the history of Karosta;
• Photos in historical costumes and military uniforms;
• Soviet time buffet with a real „buffetchitza”;
• Guided tour in Karosta Prison at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00;
• Guided tour to the Northern Forts, underground labyrinths in torchlight;
• Spy game „Escape from USSR”