The grave of the orphan beauty Turaida Rose (1601 - 1620) lies just before the castle and church at the foot of an ancient linden tree in the Turaida Museum Reserve. Legend has it that a little girl named Maija was discovered by one of the castle staff after a fierce battle. He adopted the girl and raised her here where she fell in love with a commoner who worked in the gardens. Unfortunately, beautiful Maija also attracted the attention of a Polish soldier who asked her hand in marriage, which she refused. She was kidnapped and brought to the Gutmanis Cave where she chose death before submitting to the soldier. Newlyweds visit her grave on their wedding day and lay flowers in the hope of experiencing the same eternal love and fidelity she demonstrated to her beloved, but with better results.
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