Pape Nature Park is one of the wildest and most extraordinary places on the Latvian coast. One of its most recognizable symbols is the old wooden piers located at the mouth of the Pape Canal. These structures, slowly surrendering to the elements, attract both history enthusiasts and nature photographers.
Two Structures – One Purpose
To ensure the functioning of the Pape Canal, a system of protective structures has been established:
The Stone Jetty: Located directly at the mouth of the canal, its primary role is to protect the canal from erosion and siltation.
The Old Wooden Piers: Situated slightly to the north, these are timber-framed rows filled with stones. Historically, they served as a vital piece of infrastructure for local fishermen, providing safer passage to the sea.
Today, these piers have lost their original technical function but have become a sanctuary for numerous waterbirds. While the modern stone jetty now handles the main protective duties, the old wooden piles remain as a nostalgic and dramatic part of the landscape.