For those who love architecture, history and art, Latvia is a wonderland. From the historical districts of Riga City to the more than 100 castles that dot the countryside, there is evidence of Latvia’s long lineage everywhere you turn. From cultural performances to art galleries to historical monuments, it’s easy to discover Latvia’s rich heritage. Here’s where to start.
Rundale Palace, Zemgale
Don’t miss this massive Baroque-style palace designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli (of St. Petersburg Winter Palace fame) and constructed between 1736 and 1768. The beautifully restored palace, nicknamed the Baltic Versailles, boasts 138 rooms that were once used by the tsarist governors of the region. Of the galleries, landings, rooms and halls, perhaps the most interesting and well-decorated are upstairs, with their Dutch, Flemish and Spanish paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Riga Center and Old Riga
Riga Center, the historic heart of Riga (an important center of the Hanseatic League in the 13th to 15th centuries and economic powerhouse in the 19th century), is known for its imposing neoclassical- and art nouveau-style architecture. The most ornate buildings can be found on and around Alberta Street. Old Riga is adjacent to Riga Center - within its core, you’ll see a diverse range of architecture from the late 12th century forward. In Old Town, as it’s also known, you can touch both walls of Rozena Street at once - it’s the narrowest street in all of Riga. Be sure to climb the tower at St. Peter’s Church for a stunning Old Town and city view.
Turaida Museum Reserve, Vidzeme
This popular Latvian museum focuses on archaeology, culture and art from as far back as the 11th century. Explore Turaida Medieval Castle and learn about life on the River Gauja, as well as Latvia’s musical heritage on Folk Song Hill. Turaida itself was built in 1214 and is one of the country’s oldest visible castles. Its magnificent setting on a high strip of land between two river ravines offers a marvelous view over the forested Gauja River valley.
Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum
This superb spot illuminates local life in the 18th and 19th centuries, through recreated homes, churches and windmills. Chat with the docents to learn more about Latvian traditions and village life.
Latvian National Museum of Art
You’ll marvel as much at the museum’s gorgeous exterior as you will at the masterpieces inside. The permanent collection of more than 52,000 works showcases art that represents Russia prior to the Second World War, as well as works by Latvian, Baltic and Russian paintings and sculptors. As with many Latvian buildings, the museum structure itself is a national architectural monument and one of the most impressive historical buildings on the Riva Avenue circle.
Latvian National Opera and Ballet
Take in a top-notch production at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet - including classical and modern opera, world-class ballet, children’s operas and original Latvian productions. Be sure to take a tour of the 19th-century architectural gem, during which you’ll learn about the building, its history and its behind-the-scenes daily operations. The Riga Opera Festival is held here, to international acclaim, at the end of each national opera and ballet season.
Perkons Saule Daugava
A must for art lovers, particularly those who appreciate street art, Perkons Saule Daugava boasts the biggest graffiti displays in the Baltics. Famous Latvian street artists Rudens Stencil and Kiwie, used more than 1,500 spray cans to create this massive display.
From the medieval castles Ventspils and Cesis, to the Art Nouveau pearls and historic churches of Liepaja, Latvia will astound you with its fascinating history and heritage. Ready to discover it for yourself? Let’s chat. You can sign up to schedule a consultation or sign up for my weekly newsletter for more inspiration.