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Nautrāni Cultural Space (2025)
Although the Nautrāni place name has existed in various forms for over 400 years, no inhabited place with this name appears on any map. The center of the pagasts, where the Nautrāni church is located, is Rogovka. This is a relatively new name because the village of Rogovka only began developing after 1799 when a Roman Catholic church was built there.
To the Inventory of ICH

Author:

Edeite Laime, Andra Zubko-Melne, Inga Vigule

Other domains

Oral traditions and their expressions, including language as a vehicle of intangible cultural heritage

Social practices, rituals and festive events

Music/performing arts

Traditional kitchen

Traditional craft skills

Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe

Title

Nautrāni Cultural Space (2025)

Nautrānu kultūrtelpa, Nautrānu kulturtelpa, Nautranu kulturtelpa, Nautrēnu kultūrtelpa

Although the Latvian literary language name of the civil pagasts is “Nautrēni,” the official name of the cultural space should be “Nautrānu kultūrtelpa,” in accordance with the recommendation of linguists (including the Place Name Subcommittee of the Latvian Language Expert Commission of the State Language Center). This applies to a larger area, not just the current civil pagasts (pagasts).

September 1, 2025, will mark 100 years since Zaļmuiža pagasts was renamed Nautrēni pagasts. In 1924, the Saeima adopted a decision to approve the list of pagasts, which included the determination that the names of many pagasts should be changed. The Saeima transcripts contain extensive discussion on whether Latgale place names should be written according to the Latgalian written language or the Latvian literary language. At that time, the idea of using a uniform spelling gained support. As a result, the names of pagasts were changed to more euphonious ones in an effort to eliminate the word “muiža” (country estate associated with Baltic Germans). The new names took effect on September 1, 1925. Subsequently, Zaļmuiža Pagasts in Ludza District was renamed Nautrēnu Pagasts, taking the Latvian form of the Roman Catholic parish’s name. The Catholic parish is Nautrāni, but the civil parish is Nautrēni.

Geography

Nautrēni Pagasts in the Rēzekne District, part of Ilzeskalns Pagasts from the center to the north and the northern part of the Mežvidi Pagasts in the Ludza District.

The Nautrāni cultural space comprises just under two thousand residents, united by a sense of belonging to the area, regardless of whether they currently reside there or elsewhere in Latvia or the world. They describe themselves as hardworking, resourceful, proud, independent, helpful, strong-willed, and firm in their convictions. They are unafraid of difficulties but quiet and modest at the same time. A saying originating from the exceptional local figure, songwriter, and advocate for justice Pīters Miglinīks (1850–1883) — “Troks vai nu Rogovkys” (“Crazy or from Rogovka”) — aptly encapsulates the essence of the local population. One of the most important elements of this cultural space is undoubtedly the Latgalian language, specifically the Nautrēni dialect. It is one of the most Latgalian places in Latvia, where the language is honored and passed on to future generations. It is made visible and audible in everyday life and cared for in terms of its use at national events.

The Nautrāni Cultural Center, the Rogovkīši Association, the Nautrēni Secondary School, the Nautrēni Preschool Educational Institution Vālodzīte, the Foundation for the Association of Teachers of the Latgalian Language, the Teachers’ Association for the Study of Latgalian Language, Literature, and Cultural History, the Nautrēni Local History Center, the Latgalian Language and Cultural History Methodological Center, the Latgalian cultural movement Volūda, the association Sovim ļaudim, the Nautrēnu Secondary School Support Fund Foundation, the Rogovka ethnographic ensemble, the Dekteri amateur theater, the Rogovka drama group, the Nautrēni branch of the J. Soikāns Ludza Art School, the Ilzeskalns community center, and the Ilzeskalns folklore group, artist Maija Gailuma, metalworker Jānis Ļubka, local historian Andra Zubko-Melne; linguists Anna Stafecka and Veronika Dundure, writer Laura Melne, researcher Katrīna Kūkoja, the Ludborži family, musicians Pēteris Bilinskis and Anna Višķere, and the Ilzeskalna and Nautrēnu pagasts libraries – these are the organizations and individuals who are preserving and developing the Nautrāni cultural space.

The digital community “Nautrēnu cilvēki un notikumi” (Nautrēni People and Events), with 1,700 followers, is also active. It is a Facebook group intended for researchers of Nautrēni family roots. The group’s purpose is “to share historical photographs, events, and stories about the people of Nautrēni — our common and uncommon ancestors.” https://www.facebook.com/groups/586709649212193  

Description of the element

Title

Nautrāni Cultural Space (2025)

Nautrānu kultūrtelpa, Nautrānu kulturtelpa, Nautranu kulturtelpa, Nautrēnu kultūrtelpa

Although the Latvian literary language name of the civil pagasts is “Nautrēni,” the official name of the cultural space should be “Nautrānu kultūrtelpa,” in accordance with the recommendation of linguists (including the Place Name Subcommittee of the Latvian Language Expert Commission of the State Language Center). This applies to a larger area, not just the current civil pagasts (pagasts).

September 1, 2025, will mark 100 years since Zaļmuiža pagasts was renamed Nautrēni pagasts. In 1924, the Saeima adopted a decision to approve the list of pagasts, which included the determination that the names of many pagasts should be changed. The Saeima transcripts contain extensive discussion on whether Latgale place names should be written according to the Latgalian written language or the Latvian literary language. At that time, the idea of using a uniform spelling gained support. As a result, the names of pagasts were changed to more euphonious ones in an effort to eliminate the word “muiža” (country estate associated with Baltic Germans). The new names took effect on September 1, 1925. Subsequently, Zaļmuiža Pagasts in Ludza District was renamed Nautrēnu Pagasts, taking the Latvian form of the Roman Catholic parish’s name. The Catholic parish is Nautrāni, but the civil parish is Nautrēni.

Geography

Nautrēni Pagasts in the Rēzekne District, part of Ilzeskalns Pagasts from the center to the north and the northern part of the Mežvidi Pagasts in the Ludza District.

Community

The Nautrāni cultural space comprises just under two thousand residents, united by a sense of belonging to the area, regardless of whether they currently reside there or elsewhere in Latvia or the world. They describe themselves as hardworking, resourceful, proud, independent, helpful, strong-willed, and firm in their convictions. They are unafraid of difficulties but quiet and modest at the same time. A saying originating from the exceptional local figure, songwriter, and advocate for justice Pīters Miglinīks (1850–1883) — “Troks vai nu Rogovkys” (“Crazy or from Rogovka”) — aptly encapsulates the essence of the local population. One of the most important elements of this cultural space is undoubtedly the Latgalian language, specifically the Nautrēni dialect. It is one of the most Latgalian places in Latvia, where the language is honored and passed on to future generations. It is made visible and audible in everyday life and cared for in terms of its use at national events.

The Nautrāni Cultural Center, the Rogovkīši Association, the Nautrēni Secondary School, the Nautrēni Preschool Educational Institution Vālodzīte, the Foundation for the Association of Teachers of the Latgalian Language, the Teachers’ Association for the Study of Latgalian Language, Literature, and Cultural History, the Nautrēni Local History Center, the Latgalian Language and Cultural History Methodological Center, the Latgalian cultural movement Volūda, the association Sovim ļaudim, the Nautrēnu Secondary School Support Fund Foundation, the Rogovka ethnographic ensemble, the Dekteri amateur theater, the Rogovka drama group, the Nautrēni branch of the J. Soikāns Ludza Art School, the Ilzeskalns community center, and the Ilzeskalns folklore group, artist Maija Gailuma, metalworker Jānis Ļubka, local historian Andra Zubko-Melne; linguists Anna Stafecka and Veronika Dundure, writer Laura Melne, researcher Katrīna Kūkoja, the Ludborži family, musicians Pēteris Bilinskis and Anna Višķere, and the Ilzeskalna and Nautrēnu pagasts libraries – these are the organizations and individuals who are preserving and developing the Nautrāni cultural space.

The digital community “Nautrēnu cilvēki un notikumi” (Nautrēni People and Events), with 1,700 followers, is also active. It is a Facebook group intended for researchers of Nautrēni family roots. The group’s purpose is “to share historical photographs, events, and stories about the people of Nautrēni — our common and uncommon ancestors.” https://www.facebook.com/groups/586709649212193  

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Significance of the pirts tradition in community life

In the Nautrāni cultural space, place names are not forgotten. People continue to call each other by nicknames, sing at crosses in May, take care of their outstanding literary heritage, and promote new literary contributions. They play music, bring musicians together, and continue to sing, especially cherishing wedding and teasing songs. They research the history of families and places, tell stories about notable people, explore the values preserved in the oral traditions of the local people, perform theater, and create wonders in clay, metal, and fabric. They cooks kikalkas and uļbiki, preserve the Latgalian language, and ensure its development. They do not forget to honor God and begin greetings with “Vasals!” Nautrāni is often called “the Piebalga of Latgale” because it is rich in outstanding personalities, traditions, and cultural and historical events. It stands out among other places with its “madness,” strong spirit, and passion.  

Cultural life is currently maintained by the Nautrāni Cultural Center, the Ilzeskalns Community Center, and several associations. The local government, interested individuals, institutions, organizations, collectives, the Catholic parish, entrepreneurs, and craftsmen actively support these centers. Together, they create a Latgalian environment rich in traditions and events that is known throughout Latvia. The area’s values are based on its rich cultural and literary heritage, notable personalities from the region, and traditions associated with the Catholic Church and traditional culture. Examples include the folk musicians’ gathering “Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’”, a literary competition, and the annual “Pīterdīna Rogovkā”, as well as annual performances. A special feature of the Nautrāni cultural space is the Latgalian language, which permeates the daily lives of community members.

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Activities

The activities that are important to the Nautrāni cultural space can be divided into several categories:  

1) Cultural history and personalities. This includes the legacy of notable figures from the region, such as manuscript literature representative and folklore collector Andrivs Jūrdžs (1845–1925); poet and public figure Pīters Miglinīks (1850–1883); literary figure, priest, and public figure Nikodems Rancāns (1870–1933); literary figure and artist Antons Kūkojs (1940–2007); poet Pēteris Jurciņš (1932–2004); photographer Jānis Gleizds (1924–2010); film director Teuvo Tulio (1912–2000); and potter Pēteris Gailums (1962–2017). Currently, the traditions initiated by these individuals are included in the cultural space’s annual events, which promote the preservation of their memory and legacy. The Nautrāni cultural space engages in intensive research into place names, family history, and local cultural history.

2) Traditions (including religious) and events. Alongside traditional annual events, such as the folk musicians' gathering "Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’,” new events are emerging. One example is the erudition game “Nu troki gudrys,” which, alongside others, creates a rich rhythm of annual events that highlight local values. Traditions and events are also partly linked to notable figures in the cultural sphere. For instance, the Pīterdīna celebration was originally held in honor of the poet Pēteris Jurciņš but has since expanded to include events honoring other people named Pēteris. The name “Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’” comes from the Latgalian word for tin sheet (bļaka), which folk musicians, families, and neighbors used as a musical instrument during joint music-making sessions at the home of Antons Kūkojs. They struck the bļaka with a piece of wood to produce a sound that could be heard far away. Following Kūkojs’s death, the Nautrēni pagasts administration established a tradition of folk musicians gathering under the name “Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’”

An integral part of Nautrāni cultural landscape is the traditions associated with Catholicism, such as May devotions at the cross, rosary prayers, and singing psalms. Related research includes the identification of crucifixes.

3) Literature and language. One special feature of Nautrāni cultural space is its rich literary tradition, from handwritten literature to contemporary creative works. Commemorative events are held for notable writers born in Nautrāni, and events such as the P. Jurciņš literary competition and the “Rogovkys dzejis voga” poetry slam promote the development of new literature throughout the region. Writers’ contributions are regularly featured in events organized in the cultural space. An essential part of the cultural space is the study of the Latgalian language (Nautrēnu dialect) and the development of its written form and presence in everyday life. It is spoken by all generations and present throughout the region. The Nautrāni cultural space is one of the few places in Latgale where special care is taken to preserve and promote the Latgalian language.

4) Cultivating and passing on skills and knowledge. This includes traditional singing, especially wedding and teasing songs; crafts such as ceramics, blacksmithing, woodcarving, and wickerwork; maintaining culinary heritage; theater; folk music; and other skills and knowledge. These are passed on to young people and other interested parties through master classes and various events.

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Beliefs, rituals, and unwritten rules

One of the unique values of Nautrāni cultural space is its preserved place names (microtoponyms), which bear witness to valuable minerals, the landscape’s relief, and the people who lived there. The place name map created by local historian and cartographer Andra Zubko-Melne is a unique national record of local microtoponyms.  

In Nautrāni, it is customary to use nicknames. As the locals joke, “In 1989, there were twelve Juonis Belinskis in Līsmys! How to tell them apart?” Thus one became “Handsome Guy”, with another having to bear the nickname “Cream Head”.

The Nautrēni (Rogovka) Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a national art monument, and the local parish is actively involved in related events. In accordance with the church’s status, Mass is held there every weekday morning. To keep the tradition alive, local residents have agreed among themselves who will attend Mass on which mornings. The Nautrēni pagasts dance group, “Vasalinki,” participates in the St. Anthony’s Day procession, one of the biggest church festivals.

Nautrēni is the only place in Latvia where schoolchildren can study the Latgalian language at every level. To promote its use in preschool, for example, there is an unwritten agreement that all communication in the educational institution takes place only in Latgalian once a week (on Fridays).

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Inheritance and transmission

One of the most important activities for learning about and preserving cultural traditions is involving children and young people, as well as organizing workshops, courses, and publicly accessible events. A new tradition is the erudition game “Nu troki gudrys”, organized by the Nautrāni Culture Center. As part of this game, teams explore the cultural history of the surrounding area. The cultural calendar includes several events dedicated to cultural figures, and creative workshops for adults (working with clay) are organized. Meetings with local writers are held in the library. There is a special emphasis on promoting new creative work and involving children and young people in amateur art groups and events. Every other year, Rogovka hosts the “Vosoruošona” Latgalian language and culture courses. Family researchers, cultural history enthusiasts, and local historians are strongly represented. One area of activity includes incorporating significant elements and personalities into the public environment through banners, maps, and murals. There is an increased emphasis on the visual presence of the Latgalian language in the environment, for example, by providing all event posters in Latgalian.

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History

Historically, Latgale’s cultural space has been shaped by the church, which has always been the cultural center of the region. The church has been the guardian and protector of Latgale’s cultural environment, values, traditions, and Latvian language. The Catholic Church played an important role in promoting education and raising awareness of the nation’s spiritual heritage. Old prayer books served as primers for homeschooling; they were used to teach people to read prayers and the catechism. Later, practical advice for farmers and folklore materials were also written down by hand. Thus, today, we can speak of handwritten literature from a period when printing was banned. This literature was created by Latvian farmers in Latgale who usually had no formal education. One of the most notable was Andrivs (Andryvs) Jūrdžs from Nautrāni. He was the author of many thick handwritten books and an active member of the church choir.

Although the Nautrāni place name has existed in various forms for over 400 years, no inhabited place with this name appears on any map. The center of the pagasts, where the Nautrāni church is located, is Rogovka. This is a relatively new name because the village of Rogovka only began developing after 1799 when a Roman Catholic church was built there.

The history of the Nautrāni parish name is much older. Over time, the name “Nautrāni,” as written by foreigners, has been inflected in various ways. One of the earliest forms is Neuterschen, which is mentioned in the 1583 audit report of the Rēzekne starosty as agros illos Neuterschen dictos possedisse, meaning “managed the fields called Neuterschen.” Later audit documents also feature names based on the root Neuter–/Nauter– (cf. Latin neuter, meaning “belonging to no one, neither of the two”) and the suffix -an-.

The pagasts administration characteristic of today began to take shape after the pagasts municipality law was passed in 1866. Initially, the pagasts center was located in Zaļmuiža, hence the name Zaļmuiža Pagasts. On September 1, 1925, the pagasts was renamed Nautrēni Pagasts in the Latvian literary language, though the local Latgalian form, Nautrāni, remained in use for the parish. The Nautrāni area has always had a large proportion of Latvian and Catholic residents. In 1897 and 1935, they made up around 96–98% of the population, and today, they still make up a similar large proportion.


The cultural space of Nautrāni is now the most representative example of Latgalian culture. It is a vibrant place where you can experience traditions, hear the living Latgalian language, and see how tradition becomes modern and finds its place in everyday life. Above all, however, you can feel a strong sense of self-confidence and belonging here. Catholicism and its traditions, appreciation of cultural and historical values, intergenerational communication, and passing on heritage still play an important role. Although territorial reforms and demographic challenges, such as a decline in population and proportion of young people, have affected the homogeneity of the cultural space, the local community continues to be active and carry on the work of notable figures in the area.

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Additional Information

There are 17 cemeteries in the Nautrāni cultural space: 11 Catholic and one Orthodox cemetery in the Nautrēni pagasts and four Catholic and one Orthodox cemetery in the Ilzeskalns pagasts. All Catholic cemeteries hold annual cemetery remembrances and candlelight evenings. These celebrations are important events for the community and are planned well in advance. Information about the dates of these celebrations is published in early spring. Each cemetery has a caretaker who is elected by the relatives of those buried there. The caretaker maintains the grounds, collects donations for repairs to chapels, crucifixes, and cemetery fences, organizes community workdays to clean the cemetery, and collaborates with the Nautrēni Association administration to improve the cemetery.

The cultural space preserves funeral traditions, such as singing psalms for the deceased and honoring them at Holy Mass on the fortieth day after their passing. It is also customary to serve refreshments at the graveside to those who have come to see off the deceased. Refreshments are also served at the graveside to those who attend the funeral but do not stay for the reception.   

Wedding traditions: One characteristic modern tradition in the Nautrēni cultural area is making wedding gates for the bride and groom. In the Nautrēni pagasts, a group of about seven local residents make wedding gates for all weddings that take place in the pagasts or pass through it on the wedding day. They involve children and adapt the theme to the professions or other characteristic activities of the newlyweds. Usually, the newlyweds do not know if there will be a gate or where it will be. 

As Antons Kūkojs once wrote, “The people of Nautrēni have long been famous for their fabrics, belts, and gloves woven or knitted on every farm. The folk costume of this region is unique.” There is abundant evidence of Nautrāni cultural space textiles and folk costume elements in the collection of the National History Museum of Latvia, including approximately 70–80 belts, sashes, and aprons; four samples of skirt fabric; two skirts; one woolen jacket; 12 mittens; two pairs of socks; and two sock tops (data provided by the LNVM on items in the collection). Images of Nautrēni folk costume and textile elements have been published in several publications, including Volume II (Textiles, 1962) and Volume III (Clothing, 1967) of Latviešu tautas māksla (Latvian Folk Art), Zemgale, Augšzeme, Latgale (Volume III, 2003), Brunči Latvijā 19. gs.–20. gs. sākumā (Skirts in Latvia in the 19th c. and Beginning of the 20th c., 2023), Mirdza Slava’s Latviešu rakstainie cimdi (Latvian Ornamented Mittens, 1990), and Latviešu tautas tērpi (Latvian Folk Dress, 1966). 

The tablets on display at the Nautrēni Local History Center were prepared by A. Kūkojs in the 1980s–1990s (exact date unknown) and contain information about several notable craftswomen and weavers, including A. Ruduka, V. Viļuma, M. Boļšija, and A. Laizāne, as well as knitters M. Bautre, L. Voitkāne, and T. Kazuša. Today, information about these once-famous craftswomen should be updated, and the current situation regarding weaving and knitting skills should be assessed. This could be a future task for developing the cultural space.

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Masters

Masters who are important to the Nautrāni cultural space, as well as people involved in preserving and practicing the cultural space’s values.

CRAFTSPEOPLE AND ARTISTS:
• Maija Gailuma – ceramist, florist, and artist;
• Jānis Ļubka, a metalworker;
• Jurģis and Līga Skabis — wicker weavers;
• Leons Jerumāns – beekeeper;
• Arnis Začests – woodcarver, artist;
• Eduards Kukurs – painter;
• Dzidra Igaune – needleworker.

MUSICIANS AND SINGERS:
• Pēteris Belinskis – musician;
• Anna Višķere – musician, singer, and organizer of cultural events in the Ilzeskalna pagasts;
• Vinsents Kūkojs – folk musician and songwriter;
• Iveta Magiča – folk musician;
• Jānis Laurs – musician;
• Jānis Belinskis, folk musician;
• Ivars Rjabovskis – musician;
Anna Garanča – lead of the ethnographic ensemble “Rogovka,” expert on May Day traditions, and organist;
• Sovvaļnīks (Ingars Gusāns) – musician;
• Antons Gleizds – folk musician;
• Dzidra Kotova – folk musician, spiritual songs, and psalms;
• Anna Ivone – spiritual songs;
• Veronika Uļjāne – old master (spiritual songs and psalms).

LINGUISTS, LITERARY FIGURES, AND RESEARCHERS:
• Andra Zubko-Melne – regional researcher and cartographer;
• Anna Stafecka – linguist and researcher of the Nautrēni dialect;
• Anna Rancāne – writer;
• Laura Melne – writer and expert in the Latgalian written language;
• Anita Ludborža – regional historian;
• Mārīte Zubko – regional historian;
• Veronika Dundure – linguist and researcher of the Latgalian language and Nautrēni cultural history;
• Amanda Ludborža – researcher of the Zaļmuiža taverns;
• Sandis Laime – folklore researcher and expert on the Nautrāni cultural space folklore collection;
• Katrīna Kūkoja – handwritten literature researcher;
• Laura Bringina – researcher of Nautrēni families;
• Ēriks Začs – nature researcher;
• Juoņs Rancāns – collector.

CULTURAL AND PUBLIC FIGURES:
• Inga Vigule – organizer of cultural events in Nautrēni Pagasts and cultural project manager;
• Ērika Bozoviča – director of the Dekteri amateur theater in Nautrēni Pagasts;
• Maruta Miščenko – director of the Rogovka Drama Group in Nautrēni Pagasts;
• Ingūna Ludborža – Director of the Nautrēni Secondary School Sprigači dance group, the Vasalinki dance group, and the Troks Voi youth dance group;
• Līvija Plavinska – Long-time head of the Nautrēni Association and member of the Latgalian Cultural Association; 
• Terēze Kūkoja – Member of the Rogovkīši Association and cultural project manager;
• Marija Mazure – Board member of the Rogovkīši Association and cultural project manager;
• Daiga Miščenko – Head of the Culture and Tourism Administration of the Rēzekne Region;
• Edeite Laime – Latgalian cultural movement “Volūda,” cultural project manager;
• Juris Kravalis, priest – Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary parish in Nautrēni, Our Lady of the Scapular parish in Mežvidi, Ilzeskalns Chapel.

ENTREPRENEURS:
• Jūlija and Aleksejs Danilins – Liepkalns Farm;
• Aija Rancāne – Lavandrūtas lavender field;
• Gunta Hjusa and Ansis Grins – Dzeneiši eco-farm;
• Miervaldis Ludboržs – SILS shop (exhibition on Zaļmuiža taverns);
• Daina and Marta Zvejsalniece – Daina's Gardening School.

CULINARY TRADITION KEEPERS:
• Vija Škestere – hostess;
• Pēteris Pujats – beer brewer;
• Ivars Aizezers – beer brewer;
• Arvīds Pujats – beer brewer.

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Institutions and Organizations

Institutions involved in preserving, developing, and supporting the intangible cultural heritage of the Nautrēni cultural space:

• Rēzekne Municipality;
• Nautrēni Association Administration;
• Nautrānu kulturys centrys;
• Rogovkīši Association;
• Nautrēni Secondary School;
• Nautrēni Preschool Educational Institution “Vālodzīte” and its Ilzeskalns branch;
• The Association of Teachers of the Latgalian Language, Literature, and Cultural History;
• Nautrēni Local History Center;
• The Methodological Center for the Latgalian Language and Cultural History;
• Latgalian Cultural Movement “Volūda”;
• The Association “Sovim Ļaudim”;
• The Nautrēni Secondary School Support Foundation;
• Ethnographic Ensemble “Rogovka”;
• Dekteri Amateur Theater;
• Rogovka Drama Group;
• Nautrēni Secondary School Folk Dance Group “Sprigači”;
• Nautrēni Pagasts Dance Group “Vasalinki”;
• Nautrēni Pagasts Youth Dance Group “Troks Voi”;
• J. Soikāns Ludza Art School, Nautrēni branch;
• Ilzeskalns Community Center;
• Ilzeskalns Folklore Group;
• Ilzeskalns Pagasts Library;
• Nautrēni Pagasts Library;
• Latvian Folklore Archives of the Institute of Literature, Art, and Folklore at the University of Latvia.

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Reinforcement

Until now, organizations, institutions, and individual activists have worked independently to preserve the Nautrāni cultural space. A rhythm of annual events has developed, including traditional events such as the folk musicians’ gathering “Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’’, Pīterdīna in Rogovka; a literary competition; a quiz; a Latgalian poetry slam; organ music concerts; and master classes for craftsmen and musicians. There are also traditional events, such as May devotions at crosses, and events that are relatively “natural,” such as the work of craftsmen and other preservers of intangible cultural heritage. One of the most visible activities is the increased use of the Latgalian language in public spaces, such as on posters and banners. This helps strengthen the community's awareness of the value of the local language. Language is an essential element of a cultural space’s existence, and local educational institutions play a significant role in preserving it. These institutions serve as models for others in the region, promoting the learning of the Latgalian language.

The work done so far has ensured the stable development of the Nautrāni cultural space and the involvement of new parties and organizations in organizing, documenting, and publicizing traditional events. It has also promoted research. A sense of belonging to the geographical location, a sense of mission, and a desire to continue what has been started are some of the most important aspects that generate high activity and involvement.


To date, Nautrāni cultural space events and research projects have been implemented with support and funding from the local community, the Rēzekne municipality, and various foundations. Every year, organizations and institutions implement several Latgale cultural programs and projects, which are supported by the State Culture Capital Foundation and other financiers. In 2024, for instance, funding was granted for an exhibition at the Zaļmuiža tavern, a literary competition dedicated to Pēteris Jurciņš, and projects for the events “Pīterdīna Rogovkā” and “Rogovkys dzejis voga,” as well as a project to digitize Andrivs Jūrdžs’s manuscripts and a project to place Latgalian banners. The cultural space’s activities are also supported by Andrivs Jūrdžs’s descendant, Pīters Ragaušs, a patron of the arts living in the United States, who participates in them. 

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Continuation/development

Institutions, organizations, and activists working in the Nautrāni cultural space are already informing the public in various ways and publicly discussing their work, events, and new initiatives. The activists and organizations in the cultural space include strong local historians, researchers in specific fields (e.g., literature, language, and folklore), and organizations interested in documenting, researching, and publicizing the cultural space’s heritage. One future research direction is cooperating with the Latvian Folklore Archive to identify folklore collections requiring further processing. Research on handwritten literature has begun. A publication about the family of Pīters Miglinīks is being prepared. To promote documentation and recognition, plans are in place to create a digital platform where stories, materials, and rich information about notable personalities and events in the cultural space will be published.


One of the most important tasks in developing the cultural space is promoting cooperation within the community. This includes having regular joint discussions about strategy, future steps, and the directions in which community activists believe the process should move. It is crucial to consolidate this strategy in the Rēzekne municipality’s planning documents, as well as to address Ludza municipality to more actively involve the geographical part of the territory under another municipality’s jurisdiction that is historically linked to the Zaļmuiža pagasts. Several leading national non-governmental organizations that work on issues related to the Latgalian language operate in the Nautrāni cultural space. It is necessary to introduce these organizations to the various aspects of this language’s existence.

One of the most significant threats to the development of the cultural space is the population decline, which is why involving children and young people in events related to traditional culture, literature, and language is particularly important. This can be achieved through closer cooperation between organizations, institutions, and educational institutions within the cultural space.


The aim of documentation, research, protection, and development measures is to strengthen the Nautrāni cultural space, strengthen the self-awareness of residents, organizations, institutions, and other interested parties, and preserve, pass on, and promote the value of existing intangible cultural heritage. The application for the cultural space is accompanied by documents expressing the commitment of organizations, institutions, and activists, as well as outlining the areas of work for the next five years. These measures aim to strengthen the sense of belonging and involve more local stakeholders and organizations in the cultural space's activities to receive greater external support. Through the Nautrāni cultural space example, we aim to inspire other Latgale communities to recognize, strengthen, and pass on their values to future generations.

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Threats

The most significant threats to the Nautrāni cultural space are the population’s decline and aging, plans to optimize the school network, and the risk of closing the secondary school. Currently, Nautrēni Secondary School is an important factor in retaining young people and preserving the Latgalian language. Other threats include the capacity, strength, and enthusiasm of community activists for maintaining and organizing cultural traditions. It is important that these remain at least at the current level and that activists do not burn out. Another important aspect is the community's ability to attract professional specialists, especially for documenting cultural heritage and events and conducting professional research. This ability should be strengthened in the future. 

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Applicant

Rēzekne District Municipality Institution “Nautrēnu apvienības pārvalde” (40900027430)

Image Gallery

Etnogrāfiskaisansamblis Rogovka

Ethnographic Ensemble “Rogovka”
Author unknown, 1990. Photograph from the collection of the Nautrēnu Local History Center.

Kuozys Latgola

Performance: “Kuozys Latgolā” (Wedding in Latgale)
Author unknown. Photo taken during filming of the 1990 documentary Rampa of the ethnographic performance “Wedding in Latgale”, created by A. Kūkojs in 1974. Photo from the collection of the Nautrēni Local History Center.

Dekteru amaterteatris ar izruodi Reigā 2024-01-27 foto Edeite Laime

Dekturi Amateur Theater Performing in Riga
Photo: Edeite Laime. The photo was taken on January 27, 2024, when the Dekteri Amateur Theater from the Nautrēnu Pagasts performed E. Ilmere’s comedy “Onton, mums juosaškir!” (Ontons, We Have to Divorce) as a guest performance at the P. Jurjāns Music School.

Ekspoziceja_iz_krudzenu_Foto-Amanda_Anusane-03

Exhibition: “Iz krūzeņu gluds bej ceļš”
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. The exhibition “Iz krūdzeņu gluds bej ceļš” (The Road to the Tavern Was Smooth) is at the “SILS” store, and the exhibition’s author is Amanda Ludborža.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-027

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Road sign in Ilzeskalns village.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-035

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Clay working classes at the Nautrēni branch of the J. Soikāns Ludza Art School.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-043

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Nautrēni Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and lantern pole banners.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-044

Map of Nautrēni place names
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Map of Nautrēnu place names by Andra Zubko-Melne.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-048

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Mural on the old pub (now the "SILS" store building) depicting three Nautrēni heroes: Andryvs Jūrdžs, Pīters Miglinīks, and Antons Kūkojs. The mural was painted by Laima Andrejeva.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-089

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. May songs at the cross in the garden of the Roman Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Nautrāni on May 21, 2025.

Nautrānu kulturtelpa. Foto_ Amanda Anusāne-125

Ethnographic Ensemble “Rogovka”
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. The ethnographic ensemble “Rogovka” at the folk musicians’ gathering “Večerinka ‘O, bļaka!’” on May 24, 2025.

Vosoruošona_3.dina_Rogovka_foto_Amanda_Anusāne-108

Latgalian Language and Culture Course “Vosoruošona”
Photo: Amanda Anusāne. Latgalian Language and Culture Courses “Vosoruošona” in Rogovka, August 2023.

Audio Materials

J. Ulbicāns’s remembers gatherings in Nautrēni
Audio: I. Vigule. Jānis Ulbicāns (11/18/1934–12/24/2018).

Video materials:

Nautrēni Dialect
Video: Elmārs Pēterāns. Story by Anna Stafecka, linguist and researcher of the Nautrēni dialect, 2025.

Music and singing
Video: Sergejs Čakāns. Folk musicians’ gathering “O, bļaka!”, featuring musician Pēteris Belinskis and the ethnographic ensemble “Rogovka”, 2025.

May Songs at the Crosses
Video: Sergejs Čakāns. Anna Višķere (Ilzeskalns) and the Rogovka singers, 2025.

Cultural History and Personalities
Video: Sergejs Čakāns. Mārīte Zubko at the Nautrēni Local History Center; Amanda Ludborža and the Zaļmuiža tavern exhibition; and Veronika Dundure at the Latgalian Language and Cultural History Methodological Center.

Preservation of Place Names
Video: Sergejs Čakāns. Local historian and cartographer Andra Zubko-Melne presents the map of place names in Nautrēni pagasts, 2025.

Text Materials

08_2025_NKM_precizeta karte

Nautrāni Cultural Space
Novadpētnieces Andras Zubko-Melnes sagatavots apraksts par Nautrānu kultūrtelpas robežām, Zaļmuižas pagastu un Nautrānu draudzi.

Karte_NKM

Nautrānu kultūrtelpas karte
Novadpētnieces Andras Zubko-Melnes sagatavota Nautrānu kultūrtelpas karte.

100 personeibys_Nautranu kulturtelpa

100 Nautrānu kultūrtelpas personības
Novadpētnieces Andras Zubko-Melnes sagatavots saraksts ar 100 Nautrānu kultūrtelpas personībām.

A. Rancānes atbolsta viestule Nautrānu kulturtelpai

Annas Rancānes atbalsta vēstule
14. Saeimas deputātes Annas Rancānes atbalsta vēstule Nautrānu kultūrtelpas Latvijas Nemateriālā kultūras mantojuma sarakstā.

Nautrānu kultūrtelpas organizāciju apliecinājumi un piecgades plāni

Nautrānu kultūrtelpas organizāciju, iestāžu un kolektīvu apliecinājumi un darbības plāni*
Nautrānu kultūrtelpas iestāžu, biedrību un citu organizāciju, kolektīvu apliecinājumi par iesaistīšanos kultūrtelpas norisēs, ieskats iepriekš darītajā un darbības plāni turpmākajiem pieciem gadiem. *Elektroniski parakstīti apliecinājumi glabājas pie pieteikuma iesniedzēja.

Rēzeknes novada KTP Atbalsta vēstule

Rēzeknes novada Kultūras un tūrisma pārvaldes atbalsta vēstule*
Rēzeknes novada Kultūras un tūrisma pārvaldes atbalsta vēstule Nautrānu kultūrtelpas iekļaušanai Latvijas nemateriālā kultūras mantojuma sarakstā. *Elektroniski parakstīta Atbalsta vēstule glabājas pie pieteikuma iesniedzēja.

Nautranu_kulturtelpas_folkloras_vakumi

Folkloras vākumi Nautrānu kultūrtelpā: vēsturisks pārskats
Folkloras pētnieka Sanda Laimes sagatavots apkopojums par Nautrānu kultūrtelpas folkloras vākumiem un to izpētes perspektīvām.

Publications

Stafecka, A., (2016). Latgales latgaliskā izloksne: Nautrēni. Nautrēnu izloksnes paraugi. Avoti vēl neizsīkst. Latviešu valodas dialekti 21. gadsimtā. Rīga: LU Latviešu valodas institūts, 370.–459. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (1999). Nautrāni – netipisks vietvārds vai toponīmijas mīkla? – Integrācijas problēmas mūsdienās. Starptautiskās zinātniskās konferences materiāli. – Rēzekne: RA, 18–20. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (1999). Izloksnes un rakstu valodas saskarsme A. Jūrdža rokraksta kalendāros. Vārds un tā pētīšanas aspekti. Rakstu krājums, 3. – Liepāja: LPA, 179.–185. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (2002). Zemes reljefa apzīmējumi Nautrānu vietvārdos. Vārds un tā pētīšanas aspekti. Rakstu krājums 6. – Liepāja: LPA, 46–52. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (2003). Augu, koku un mežu nosaukumi Nautrānu vietvārdos. Vārds un tā pētīšanas aspekti. Rakstu krājums 7. – Liepāja: LPA, 93.–99. lpp.

Jūrdžs, A. (1999) Myužeygays kalinders (Latgales rokraksta literatūras pirmpublicējums. A. Stafeckas ievads, komentāri un īpatnējo vārdu vārdnīca). – Rēzekne: LKC izdevniecība, 815. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (2009) Ieskats Nautrānu neoficiālajos mājvārdos. Vārds un tā pētīšanas aspekti. – Nr. 13: Vārds gramatikā un stilistikā. Vārda diahroniskais un areālais aspekts (2009), 317.–325. lpp.

Stafecka, A. (2012). Par dažiem Nautrānu vietvārdiem arhīvu materiālos. Vārds un tā pētīšanas aspekti. – 16.sēj., 1.d.: Fonētika, gramatika, leksika, stilistika. Vārda diahroniskais un areālais aspekts, 283.–290.lpp.

Cybuļskis, J. (2020 [1975]). Andryvs Jūrdžs. Rēzekne: Latgolas kulturas centra izdevnīceiba

Cybuļskis, J., Cybuļskis V. (2022). Atmiņuos Latgolā. Latgalian Memories. Rēzekne: bīdreiba “LgSC”

Mazure, M., Kūkoja, T. (2017). Večerinka nautranīšūs. Rēzekne: bīdreiba “Rogovkīši”

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Websites

Raidījums “Latgolys rūbežys vaicojūt: Troks voi nu Rogovkys” - Latgales reģionālās televīzijas video stāsts par Rogovku. Sarunas ar Nautrēnu vidusskolas skolotāju, etnogrāfiskā ansambļa “Rogovka” vadītāju, ērģelnieci Annu Garanču, literāti un publicisti Annu Rancāni, Nautrēnu vidusskolas skolotāju, muzeja vadītāju Mārīti Zubko, metālkalēju Jāni Ļubku un citiem dažāda vecuma vietējiem ļaudīm.

Raidījums “Kolnasāta”. Suprātkys Rogovkā - Saruna ar Nautrēnu pagasta cilvēkiem par dzīvi šajā pusē, tradīcijām un valodu.

Metālkalējs Jānis Ļubka - Mācību filma par metālkalēja amatu.

Map of Nautrēni place names - Novadpētnieces Andras Zubko-Melnes sagatavotā Nautrēnu vietvārdu karte.

Andryva Jūrdža rokraksti un izdevums “Myužeygays kalinders ar sayminiceybas iwirojumim por wyssu godu” - Digitalizēti latgaliešu literāta un gŗāmatnieka Andriva Jūrdža (Andryvs Jūrdžs, 1845–1925) rokraksti un izdevums “Myužeygays kalinders ar sayminiceybas iwirojumim por wyssu godu” (1916).

LTV1 raidījums “Cytaidi latviskais” par Pīterdīnu Rogovkā - LTV1 raidījums “Cytaidi latviskais. Latgales godi” viesojas Pīterdīnā Rogovkā. Saruna ar zemnieku Pēteri Gutāni, muzikantu Pēteri Belinski un citi Nautrēnu puses Pēteriem veltīti stāsti.

Rogovkas etnogrāfiskais ansamblis - Etnogrāfiskā ansambļa vēsture un ieraksti Latvijas Universitātes Literatūras un mākslas institūta Latviešu folkloras krātuves digitālajā arhīvā.

TV sižets par 14. tautas muzikantu saietu “O, bļaka!” - “O, bļaka!” ir tautas muzikantu saiets, kas Rogovkā katru gadu pulcina dažādu instrumentu spēlētājus, dziesminiekus un viesus no visas Latvijas.

Raidījuma “ŽIK!” viesošanās zemnieku saimniecības “Liepkalns” Griķu rezidencē - Raidījums ģimenēm un bērniem viesojas zemnieku saimniecības “Liepkalns” Griķu rezidencē, iepazīstot latgaliešu tradicionālos ēdienus un saimniecību.

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