Name: Non-material Cultural Heritage Centre “Upīte”
Item: Non-material Cultural Heritage Centre “Upīte”
Author: admin

Step off the beaten path and discover the quiet village of Upīte, a gem in Northern Latgale, where tradition lives and breathes.

The Non-Material Cultural Heritage Centre “Upīte” (Upītes nemateriālās kultūras mantojuma centrs) is the beating heart of this unique cultural space — a place where the spirit, language, and folklore of Latgale are lovingly preserved and shared.

What Makes Upīte Special

Heritage & Community
Upīte is more than just a village — it’s a living cultural landscape deeply rooted in North Latgalian traditions. Since 2018, Upīte has been recognised on Latvia’s National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
A Centre Reborn
The heritage centre brings together the local library, the community (or “people’s”) house, and the Ontons Slišāns Upīte Cultural-History Museum.
Living Traditions
Here, tradition is not static — it’s a living, breathing experience. Upīte remains home to master craftsmen, folk singers, weavers, storytellers, and musicians who pass their skills and stories from generation to generation.

What to See & Do

Exhibition Spaces
The centre’s renovated building now features a large exhibition hall, archive rooms, and cultural-activity spaces — giving you insight into the region’s past and present.
Hands-On Workshops
Experience traditional Latgalian crafts: weaving belts, baking in a wood-fired oven, and more. Centre fosters the “inheritance of non-material culture” by actively involving young people.
Stories & Songs
Join storytelling sessions, listen to folksongs sung in the Latgalian language, and take part in traditional folk dances. The centre frequently hosts community events and creative get-togethers.
Festivals
A highlight is the “Upītes Uobeļduorzs” festival — one of the oldest Latgalian music and poetry festivals, held every year in early autumn. In December, the centre celebrates “Gūdi”, an annual festival honouring those who keep Latgalian traditions alive.

Non-material Cultural Heritage Centre “Upīte”

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