Zemgale

Zemgale, also known as Semigallia, is one of Latvia's four historical and cultural regions, located in the southern part of the country. The name derives from the Semigallians, an ancient Baltic tribe who inhabited the area. The region is bordered by Kurzeme to the west, Vidzeme to the north, Latgale to the east, and lies inland away from the Baltic coast. The landscape is largely flat and agricultural, dominated by the Zemgale Lowland with the Daugava and Lielupe rivers crisscrossing the territory.

Major towns include Jelgava, the largest city and regional hub; Jēkabpils, Bauska, Dobele, and Aizkraukle. The Zemgale Planning Region, established in 2009, coordinates regional development across its municipalities and supports cross-border cooperation and planning.

Historically, Zemgale was inhabited by the Semigallians and formed part of the medieval Livonian Confederation before becoming part of various state formations, including the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Swedish Empire, and the Russian Empire. It is now part of the Republic of Latvia. The region is known for its cultural heritage, including Semigallian folk traditions and regional crafts.

Economic and cultural highlights include a strong agricultural sector with cereals, dairy, and beet crops, as well as manufacturing in urban centers. Notable landmarks include Rundāle Palace near Pilsrundāle, Bauska Castle in Bauska, the Koknese castle ruins along the Daugava, and the Tērvete Nature Park. The Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies operates in Jelgava.