Memorial Plaque for the Livs of the Daugava and their Leader Ako.
It is dedicated to commemorate the freedom fights of the Livs (the indigenous people of the lower Daugava region) in the 1206 revolt led by Ako from Mārtiņsala (Holme) against the crusaders. Mārtiņsala was a significant centre of the Livs from the 10th to the 13th century; now the island lies below the water level of the power station reservoir. Ako was killed in a battle, and his head was sent to Riga as proof of victory. This is also a place where the first human settlement (Salaspils Laukskola) of late Palaeolithic reindeer hunters was discovered by archaeologists in the early 1970s. A memorial sign for Ako was arranged in 1994, reconstructed in 2013. The site was designed by sculptor Ģ. Burvis; landscape design of the territory established in 2014.
The Ako Monument in Salaspils, near the Daugava, is a tribute to the Livonians and their leader Ako, who led a revolt against the Crusaders in the 13th century. This monument was created in 1994 by sculptor Ģirts Burvis and is located not far from the Riga Hydroelectric Power Station dam, on the outskirts of Riga. The area surrounding the monument is ideal for relaxing and strolling, with information boards providing interesting insights into the history of the Daugava region and the culture of the Livonians - a people who used to live along the river.
The monument is not only historically interesting, but also remarkable in its shape and design. The inscriptions on the wood and the artistic engravings on the stones remind us of the Livonians' connection to nature and the importance of their culture. It is a quiet place that, despite its proximity to the city, creates a special atmosphere and keeps Latvia's history alive.
If you are interested in Latvian history and ancient cultures, the Ako Memorial is definitely worth a visit. In the peaceful landscape you can immerse yourself in the past and experience the legacy of the Livonians.
Translated by Google •
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