The Livonian branch of the Teutonic Knights built Bauska Castle on the site of an earlier Semigallian fortress. Construction began under Master Heidenreich Vinke von Overberg, with first stone buildings dated to 1438 to 1450, or traditionally 1443. The old section has a great watch tower and walls 11 feet (3.5 m) thick. Duke Friedrich Kettler added a new wing in 1590 and expanded it in 1599. The article names no style or architect.
The Order passed the castle to Poland in 1559. Gustavus Adolphus captured it on September 17, 1625. Retreating Russians blew up the castle and palace in 1706, during the Great Northern War.
Prince Paul von Lieven bought the ruins in 1874 and began restoration. Partial restoration began again in 2008. It is a museum open to the public.
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