Riga: A refined capital woven with layers of history and culture
Riga’s origins date back to 1201 when it was founded by the German bishop Albert. It quickly became a hub for trading ships and joined the Hanseatic League during the Middle Ages. The wealth generated during this time is still evident in the monumental buildings of Vecrīga, the city’s Old Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Riga is especially famous for its rich collection of Art Nouveau architecture, which is so abundant and well-preserved that it invites comparisons to cities like Vienna, St. Petersburg, and Barcelona. At the turn of the 20th century, the city experienced a construction boom, resulting in over 800 Art Nouveau buildings—the highest concentration of this style in the world. It’s easy to see why; these façades with their flowing floral motifs, mythological figures, and ornate reliefs follow in the footsteps of Art Nouveau art. Just stroll down Alberta or Elizabetes Street, and you’ll find yourself constantly looking up in awe.
Riga’s history reflects the influence of various empires throughout the centuries. In the 1560s, the city came under the rule of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, followed by Swedish rule in 1621. After the Great Northern War in the 1700s, Riga became part of the Russian Empire. This succession of governments has left the city with a legacy of multiple languages, including German, Swedish, and Russian, as well as a distinctly multicultural character. The 20th century saw Riga briefly gain independence in 1918, only for the city to be occupied by the Nazis during World War II. After the war, it served as the capital of Soviet Latvia until the country regained its independence in 1991. One significant event leading up to this independence was the Baltic Way in 1989, when tens of thousands of people joined hands around Riga’s Freedom Monument, reaching across borders to neighboring capitals. Today, if you walk past that monument, you will still see the inscription “Tevzemei un Brīvībai” (“For Fatherland and Freedom”) and feel the enduring weight of a long struggle for independence.
Art at every turn: Exploring Riga from Art Nouveau to Avant-Garde
Riga has earned its title of “The Paris of the North” primarily due to its rich architectural and artistic heritage. If you are an Art Nouveau enthusiast, the Riga Art Nouveau Museum is a must-visit. Located in a 1903 apartment, the museum takes you on a journey back in time through the period’s original decoration—be sure to take a photo of the famous spiral staircase while you’re there. However, Riga’s artistic edge extends beyond Art Nouveau. At the Latvian National Museum of Art, you’ll find an extensive collection of works ranging from classical Latvian paintings to avant-garde pieces from the Soviet era. Housed in a beautifully restored 1905 building, the museum also features a contemporary underground gallery.
If history intrigues you, be sure to visit the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. Nestled in a striking black cube, the museum offers a powerful perspective on the country’s years under Soviet and Nazi rule from 1940 to 1991. As you continue your stroll through the city center, the ornate facade of the House of the Blackheads will surely catch your eye. The 14th-century guild structure, which was destroyed during World War II, has been meticulously reconstructed to replicate its original design. Just a few steps away, the soaring spire of St. Peter’s Church serves as an unmistakable landmark, and visitors can climb it to enjoy panoramic views of the city. While Riga is renowned for its Art Nouveau charm, it also boasts another treasure: its wooden architecture. The 19th-century wooden houses in surrounding neighborhoods showcase delicate carvings that reflect Latvia’s architectural heritage.
Riga in popular culture
Riga, with its rich history and captivating charm, has inspired numerous creative works. Often referred to as the “Paris of the North,” the city has now established its own unique identity, particularly in popular culture. A notable example is the crime novel “Kurt Wallander: Dogs of Riga” by Swedish author Henning Mankell, which is set in the city in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows Detective Kurt Wallander as he navigates the streets of Riga. Its compelling narrative even led to an adaptation for British television in 2012.
Things to know before visiting Riga
Here are some helpful tools and apps to make getting around Riga easy:
Getting around:
If you plan to use public transportation in Riga, whether it’s buses, trams, or trolleybuses, there are some useful digital options. The official Rīgas Satiksme app lets you create an account, purchase tickets, check schedules, and even track vehicles in real-time. For taxis, the Bolt app is the most popular choice in Riga, providing affordable rides throughout the city.
Navigation and maps:
Riga’s center is made for wandering—there’s something worth discovering on nearly every block. To maintain your footing, it’s helpful to use a map. Google Maps works well here, but if you don’t have mobile data, consider downloading a city map through an offline app before you head out for an easy get-around.
Language and communication:
The majority of the population, particularly the younger generation, speaks English. However, it’s a good idea to have Google Translate handy when visiting museums.
