The street next to the Driksa River was constructed in the 17th century, and has had many names in its time: Upes Street, Imanta Sudmaļa Boulevard, though its historic name, Jānis Čakste Boulevard, was reinstated in 1989. At that time the beautiful city houses along the Driksa embankment belonged to the noblemen of the county. The Synagogue, the aristocratic Medem Palace and Jelgava’s oldest educational institution, Anna’s Basic School were here, but were destroyed at the end of the Second World War.
The reconstructed Jānis Čakste boulevard was opened in late 2012, with a promenade divided into two levels – in parallel to the streets and along the riverside. Two observation spots are located in the upper part of the promenade, forming waterfalls with a height of 3 meters. The “Mītava” pedestrian and cyclists bridge connects the centre of Jelgava with Pasta Island. The construction concept for the bridge is the only one of its kind in the Baltics. Quays have been built at the foot of the bridge at the Driksa embankment. In warm weather one can go on a boat trip along the rivers of Jelgava from here and view a different city panorama from the river.
Remember, when you first cross the bridge, you must make a wish. It could be “Dear God, let me return to this city once again!”
