Unearthing Latgale‘s Past: Military Heritage Tourism at the Stompak Bog
North Latgale, latvia is emerging as a destination for military heritage tourism, offering a glimpse into a complex and often overlooked period of its history: the post-World War II partisan movement. The Stompak Bog Trail, in particular, is becoming a focal point for understanding this era, attracting both local and international visitors interested in Latvia‘s lesser-known historical narratives.
The area holds meaning for many, notably those with familial ties to Abrene, a nearby town with connections to communities on the Russian side of the border. A kettle recovered from the Stompak Bog serves as a tangible link to the harsh conditions endured by those who sought refuge there.
During the winter of 1945,the stompak Bog became home to one of the largest partisan camps in Latvia,a haven for men who refused to fight on the side of the Red Army following the Soviet reoccupation. The camp, established under the leadership of Peter Cinitis, deliberately aimed for a large-scale operation, ultimately housing around 350 individuals in 23 bunkers. These included veterans of the Latvian Legion, deserters from the German army, and local activists.
Today,visitors can explore the site via a marked trail with wooden footpaths leading to reconstructed partisan dwellings. Three bunkers have been rebuilt,including the beginnings of a church – restored with input from a former camp resident.Contrary to popular imagery of hidden guerrilla bunkers, these structures were not concealed, and even hosted a wedding and the birth of a child during the camp’s operation.
Despite the historical importance of the site, awareness among Latvian schoolchildren remains limited. Educators are working to bridge this gap, explaining the distinction between partisans and legionnaires, and fostering understanding through initiatives like annual campfires and soup-cooking events organized in cooperation with the Viļaka Museum.
While local interest is growing,the site currently draws more visitors from abroad and other regions of Latvia – history enthusiasts seeking an “undiscovered” experience. Researchers emphasize the importance of learning from this period, particularly in the current geopolitical climate.
the growing popularity of military heritage tourism in North Latgale is being recognized as part of a broader Baltic regional context, and is increasingly incorporated into educational programs like the “Latvian School Bag” initiative. This renewed focus aims to preserve and share these vital, yet frequently enough forgotten, chapters of Latvian history.
