PHOTO: Daugavpils fortress opens the largest exhibition of retro equipment in Latgale

2023-05-03 19:25:56

“Engineers Arsenal” will be a technical, design and cultural platform in the historic Daugavpils fortress. The exposition is thematically divided into four zones – the history of industrial design and specialized equipment, Soviet-era vehicles, motorcycle equipment, as well as the sector of western retro cars.

You can get to know the world of moto transport at the motorcycle exhibition dedicated to the speedway and at the exhibition of the moto equipment collection of the “Red Star” factory. On the other hand, the industrial heritage of Daugavpils can be viewed at the exhibition of the oldest Baltic railway company “Daugavpils Locomotive Repair Factory” and specialized equipment.

In total, the center displays more than 30 retro cars, more than 75 motorcycles and mopeds, 350 small car and moto models, as well as a unique collection of photo equipment with the famous VEF spy camera “Minox” at the forefront.

The exhibition of retro equipment features more than 30 retro cars, more than 75 motorcycles and mopeds, 350 small car and moto models, as well as a unique collection of photo equipment with the famous VEF spy camera “Minox” at the forefront. (Photo: LETA)

The building itself, where the “Arsenal of Engineers” is located, is also a unique testimony of the era and a cultural and historical value. The Engineer Arsenal building is one of the longest historical buildings in Latgale – 230 meters. It was built between 1840 and 1844, and is the last of the buildings designed by the architect Alexander Stauberts. At one time, the huge building housed a blacksmith’s forge, various workshops and warehouses. During the Soviet years, the premises were used for the aviation school, but from 1994 the building was not used.

In 2016, Daugavpils city municipality took over the ownership of the Engineering Arsenal from the state. Attracting funding from the European Union’s structural funds and cross-border cooperation programs, the restoration works of the building were started in 2019.

“Engineers Arsenal” opened its doors to visitors today, May 5, with the opening celebration “Here beats the heart of the motor”. On the other hand, on May 6, from 4 p.m., the celebration will continue in the courtyard of the center with the event “Machines that talk” organized by the “Rolling Team” association. Participation in the events will be free of charge.

The “Engineering Arsenal” exposition will be open on May 6 from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. There will be a fee to visit the exhibition, but visitors have the opportunity to participate in the “Bring Your Tool” campaign – a visitor or family, bringing their old wrench, drawing accessories or a book about equipment, will receive a free ticket.