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Gederts Eliass History Museum

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Gederts Eliass History and Art Museum in Jelgava is housed within the historic 'Academia Petrina' building, Latvia's first higher education institution, established in 1775 by Duke Peter of Courland. Designed by architect Severin Jensen, the Late Baroque structure with Neoclassical features stands as one of the city's most significant architectural landmarks. The museum was formally established in 1952 and named after the prominent Latvian painter Gederts Eliass, whose extensive collection of artworks forms the core of its exhibits. The museum's galleries detail the history of Jelgava and the Duchy of Courland, showcasing archaeological finds and 20th-century Latvian fine arts. Despite suffering heavy damage during both World Wars, the building has been faithfully restored to its original grandeur. Today, it serves as a vital cultural hub for the Zemgale region, frequently hosting specialized art exhibitions, research activities, and educational programs for the public.

Location: Latvia
Top sights: Lāčplēša pieminekļa fragments · Academia Petrina · LBTU Studentu teātris
Nearby: Bērze (19 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-5	-5	-1	6	12	16	18	17	13	6	2	-2
Rain mm	50	42	40	44	52	74	81	74	52	67	64	53

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The museum is usually open to visitors and accessible year-round. The exhibition rooms are located inside the historic Academia Petrina building.

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Typical hours

The opening hours follow standard museum patterns; usually open Tuesday to Sunday. Mondays are typically closed, except on public holidays.

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Photography

Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum without flash. In special exhibitions a ban may apply - please follow the signs.

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Time needed

Allow about one to one and a half hours for the permanent exhibition. Temporary exhibitions may take additional time.

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Combine with

The museum is located in downtown Jelgava and combines well with a city stroll. The nearby Jelgava Palace is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The museum is easily reachable on foot from Jelgava city center. Parking is available on surrounding streets and in public parking garages.

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Insider tip

Ask at the ticket desk for a free map of Jelgava - often other sights are marked on it. The Academia Petrina building itself is an architectural highlight.

Geography

Coordinates

56.65060, 23.72750

Facts

The Academia Petrina building was founded in 1775
Designed by the Danish architect Severin Jensen
The museum was officially established in 1952
Named after the painter Gederts Eliass (1887–1975)
Exhibits cover the history of the Duchy of Courland
Housed the first astronomical observatory in Latvia

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jelgava Bioenergy Center<1 km · NWExplore →

Yanqul Copper Mine14 km · SWExplore →

Priedaine Hill18 km · NWExplore →

Bērze19 km · WExplore →

Olaine Pharmaceutical Hub20 km · NEExplore →

Augstzeme Highland22 km · WExplore →

Bērze Rise23 km · WExplore →

Bērze Church24 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Gederts Eliass History Museum (10)

Lāčplēša pieminekļa fragments

Fragment of the Lāčplēsis monument, part of a national symbol.

Academia Petrina 🏛 museum

Historic school and gymnasium in Jelgava, Latvia, important educational building.

🌐 jvmm.lv

LBTU Studentu teātris

Student theatre of the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies.

🌐 jst.lv

Jelgavas Svētā Simeona un Svētās Annas pareizticīgo katedrāle

Church in Jelgava, Latvia, Orthodox cathedral of the city.

Jelgavas Svētās Trīsvienības baznīcas tornis🏛 museum

Tower of the Holy Trinity Church in Jelgava, a viewpoint.

JELGAVA

City of Jelgava, central location or observation point in the city.

Jelgavas kultūras nams

Culture house in Jelgava, venue for concerts and events.

Leļļu teātris

Puppet theatre in Jelgava, performances for children and adults.

Kurzemes hercogu kapenes🏛 museum

Crypt of the Dukes of Courland in Jelgava, historic burial site.

Jelgavas Pils

Castle in Jelgava, former residence of the Dukes of Courland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What exhibitions does the Gedert Eliass Museum offer?

It shows works by Gedert Eliass as well as exhibits on the history of Jelgava and the region.

In which building is the museum located?

It is housed in the 'Academia Petrina', the oldest higher education institution in Latvia.

Are there discounts for students?

Yes, students and seniors receive discounted entry upon presentation of ID.

Is photography allowed in the museum?

Yes, photography is usually allowed for a small additional fee.

Is there a museum shop?

Yes, there is a small area where you can buy souvenirs and art catalogs.

Gederts Eliass History Museum: where is it located?

Gederts Eliass History Museum is located in Latvia.

Gederts Eliass History Museum: what is there to see?

Highlights include Lāčplēša pieminekļa fragments, Academia Petrina, LBTU Studentu teātris.

Gederts Eliass History Museum: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Gederts Eliass History Museum: why is it worth visiting?

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Gederts Eliass History Museum

Best time to visit & climate