Riga is a place where centuries meet. Riga (capital of the Latvian SSR)

On the picturesque shore of the Gulf of Riga, one of the most major cities Baltic coast - beauty Riga. Today's Riga is the capital of Latvia, a modern European city where you can have a great time and, of course, get acquainted with the numerous sights of the city - a wonderful historical heritage left by the glorious ancestors of the inhabitants of Riga.

Ever since Soviet times, Riga has been distinguished by its atypical coloring for the allied cities and typically European look. It is no coincidence that domestic directors were so fond of making feature films in Riga, the action in which unfolded behind the impenetrable Iron Curtain. And Old Riga did not even require the construction of additional decorations. Everything about her was decorous and European.

Today, the city, which is home to more than 700 thousand inhabitants, is considered one of the most fascinating centers of the region, on the territory of which there is a huge number of historical and architectural monuments of stunning beauty.

Interestingly, Riga was founded relatively recently - at the very beginning of the 13th century. Its appearance on the map of Europe was due to the missionary activities of the Knights of the Teutonic Order, with whom Catholic monks marched the earth, forcibly converting pagans to Christianity and, as historians say, often “with fire and sword.”

After one of these missionary campaigns, a German colony was formed at the mouth of the Daugava River in 1201, which marked the beginning of the foundation of Riga. Over time, the city more than once passed under various protectorates. IN different years Riga had the status of a free city and was part of the Hanseatic Trade Union, was part of the Commonwealth, Sweden, the Russian Empire, was the capital of the Republic of Latvia, was administrative center Latvian SSR and, finally, since 1991 became the capital of independent Latvia.

It is quite understandable that such a complex history could not but leave behind characteristic traces brought into its appearance by the influence of various cultures and temporal factors. That is why a huge number of tourists come to Riga every year, not only from Europe, but also from many other continents. They are attracted by the abundance of historical sights, the pleasant mild climate and the intelligent friendliness of the locals.

Sights of Riga

Today's Riga is not only a modern European city where you can have a great time free time walking along the shady streets, sitting in cozy cafes and restaurants, spending the night away in dance clubs, but also getting acquainted with the wonderful historical heritage left by the glorious ancestors of the inhabitants of Riga.

Riga castle

The first work on the construction of the Riga castle began as early as 1330, during the reign of the Livonian Order in the city, which organizationally was part of the Teutonic Order, located on the territory of Livonia. During the ongoing wars, the castle was constantly destroyed and rebuilt again. Therefore, in its architectural appearance, one can consider the influence of numerous trends in architecture that dominated in one or another historical era.

One of the largest reconstructions of the castle was carried out in 1515, more than forty years before the end of the hegemony of the Livonian knights over Riga. After the order left the city, the castle, replacing each other, housed governors from Poland, Sweden and Russia. During the period of the first republic, the residence of its president was located in the building of the Riga Castle. The Soviet government traditionally arranged the Palace of Pioneers in the castle.

In its original form, the city castle was a fairly simple fortification, crowned with small defensive towers in the corners. During the restructuring of the 16th century, two rounded gun turrets were additionally erected, which received the names lead tower And tower of the Holy Spirit. By the way, the personal standard of the President of the Republic of Latvia is flying on the Tower of the Holy Spirit nowadays.

Today, the Riga Castle is considered a recognized example of defensive architecture dating back to the era of late classicism. The manner of distribution of premises in the castle is also traditional. Its first floors were reserved for the master's quarters, as well as for the accommodation of units carrying guard duty. The second floor was occupied by premises intended for the reception of visitors and the residence of the administration. And on the topmost third floor, equipped with small windows in the form of loopholes, there were armories.

As it should be for the present medieval castle, under the Riga fortress there is a dungeon with a wide network of underground passages and its own ghost. The latest reconstruction of the Riga Castle was carried out already at the beginning of the 20th century, which was led by the outstanding Latvian architect Eugen Laube. During the restoration work, the castle vestibule received a modern and presentable look, and a spacious Celebration Hall and a new tower appeared inside, which received the name three stars. The residence of the President of Latvia is now located on the site of the former forburg, that is, the fortifications that were built here in the 16th century.

House of the Blackheads

Just four years after the construction of the Riga Castle, in 1334, another attraction appeared in the city, which at first was called the New House, and then - House of the Blackheads. Immediately after its construction, the New House served as a gathering place for citizens to announce important government decisions. After some time, the city authorities decide to lease it to the so-called Brotherhood of the Blackheads - a kind of association of young unmarried foreign merchants who were engaged in commerce in Riga. Since Saint Mauritius was considered the patron saint of the brotherhood, his image was an adornment of their coat of arms.

The Blackheads used the premises of their house exclusively for representative purposes, as well as for storing and saving their goods in them. They also built a special underground passage under the house, which allowed the members of the brotherhood to get unnoticed to the banks of the Daugava River, which had their own pier.

The Brotherhood of Blackheads, investing heavily in the reconstruction and decoration of the New House, gradually turned it into a fashionable social center, where many wealthy citizens considered it an honor to spend their free time. During the last world war, the House of the Blackheads was badly damaged, so the Soviet authorities decided not to restore it, but to dismantle the ruins.

After the country gained independence, and in honor of the 800th anniversary of Riga, the House of the Blackheads was rebuilt in 2001, acquiring its traditional architectural features of Northern European Mannerism. Now tourists from all over the world can again admire its impressive facade, decorated with zinc statues of Neptune, Mercury, Unity and Peace.

The Dome Cathedral

Its majestic bell tower is the architectural dominant Old Riga, a true symbol and hallmark of the city. The Dome Cathedral currently recognized as the largest medieval temple built on the territory of the Baltic States. Today it belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran community of Latvia.

Its laying was carried out by the city bishop of Riga, Albrecht von Buxgevden, on July 25, 1211, on the day of honoring the popular Catholic saint Jacob. German architects were engaged in the construction of the cathedral, and the process of its construction dragged on for many centuries and was completed only at the end of the 13th century. At first, the appearance of the temple reflected a transitional architectural style between the outgoing Romanesque and early Gothic styles.

According to the original plan Cathedral was supposed to have two high towers, however, due to poor funding for construction, the architects decided to be content with only one, located in the facade of the temple. At the end of the 16th century, a wooden superstructure was built over the tower, which immediately made it the tallest building in the city. However, wood is a fragile material that requires constant repair and maintenance. Therefore, in the middle of the 18th century, instead of a wooden superstructure, the tower received a domed spire, designed in the Baroque style. Crowned with a metal cockerel, the spire of the Dome Cathedral ascended into the sky to a height of 96 meters.

Today, the interior of the Dome Cathedral can be attributed to the Gothic era, and various decorative elements that adorn its interior are made in the style inherent in the classical baroque. The appearance of the temple is dominated by Gothic features, although one can also notice the influence of the Romanesque direction, Baroque and Renaissance.

An interesting feature of the temple is the fact that its floor is at a level lower than the nearby streets. This is explained by the fact that for many centuries the townspeople, trying to reduce the damage caused to the streets by the overflowing waters of the Daugava, constantly poured gravel on the city pavements, gradually raising their height relative to the old cathedral.

Well, the greatest fame for the Dome Cathedral was brought by the organ, which is one of the largest such musical instruments in the world.

Riga St. Peter's Church

This temple dates back to the beginning of the 13th century, and at that time it was main cathedral Riga and the highest wooden building Europe. Until 1941, the tower of the church was wooden, but at the beginning of the Second World War it burned down from a shell hit. Only in 1973 it was restored anew, but it was no longer made of wood but of metal. The height of the tower is 123.25 meters. If you look closely, you can see a golden cockerel on the spire of the tower. Since ancient times, the rooster has been considered a symbol of vigilance and protection from evil spirits.

On the lower tiers of the tower - 71 and 57 meters there are observation platforms, from where a breathtaking view of the Old Town, the Dome Cathedral, the Riga Castle, the Daugava River and the surroundings opens. St. Peter's Church is a functioning Lutheran church, services are held here every Sunday.

cat house

On the street Meistaru iela the famous Riga Cat's House is located or House of cats (Kaku maja). Cat figurines installed on this building attract the attention of both adults and children. Their appearance is associated with a rather amusing story. Allegedly, the Germans who ruled there did not want to accept one wealthy Latvian merchant. As an answer, the merchant built a house not far from the Guild, and on its roof he installed figurines of cats turned back to the Guild building.

The case was even taken to court, and after long trials, the cats were still left, but they were turned in a more diplomatic direction.

"Three brothers"

This name refers to one of the most remarkable and oldest architectural complexes located on the territory of Old Riga, and to be more specific, on the Small Castle Street of the city (Maza Pils). It should be said that the development of the Old City in the Middle Ages was so dense that three very different appearance the houses stand tightly pressed together, mutually continuing and complementing each other.

According to local legend, these three houses were actually built in different time three men belonging to the same genus. The oldest building in the complex was built at the end of the 15th century. In those years, Maza Pils Street was still the outskirts of the city, where representatives of the artisan class preferred to build their houses. Therefore, in the oldest house at number 17, there used to be a craftsmen's workshop.

The appearance of this building evokes thoughts of the true asceticism of its owners. The only architectural decoration of its facade can be considered a stepped pediment, Gothic windows and two stone pillars surrounding the entrance to the house along with stone benches. In addition, this is the only house in the complex with a small playground in front of it.

Inside the building there was only one spacious room, which at the same time served as a workshop, a place for selling goods, and a corner for its owners to relax.

The second oldest "brother" at number 19 was added to the "senior" in 1646. In its appearance, the house is the most luxurious and captivating, given the fact that at the end of the 18th century it underwent restoration, carried out in accordance with the drawings of the talented artist of that time I.Kh. Broce. Architectural style the design of the house can be attributed to the Dutch mannerism, and above its entrance portico you can clearly read the inscription reading "Soli deo gloria!".

Compared to the rather poor facade of the "big brother", in the foreground of the average house there are spacious and bright windows. At the same time, the living quarters of the house are located in the back of the building, overlooking the courtyard.

The youngest of the stone "brothers", which is sometimes called "green", was built already in the second half of the 17th century, and has number 21. Initially, the first two floors of this building were reserved for craftsmen's workshops, and on the third there were small apartments for living .

After a large-scale reconstruction, which was carried out at the end of the 19th century, the building of the "green brother" lost its historical appearance. And only the restoration work carried out by the famous Riga architect Pēteris Saulytis in the 60s of the last century allowed the building to regain its original curved baroque gable.

Today, the brothers' houses house expositions of the City Museum of Architecture, the Union of Architects of the Republic with the editorial board of a profile magazine, and the Inspectorate for the Protection of Cultural Monuments of Latvia.

It should be said that we have not listed all the sights of the Latvian capital that are worth paying attention to. However, it is one thing to hear, and quite another to see this beauty with your own eyes.

Useful information for tourists about Riga in Latvia - geographical position, tourism infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.

Riga is the capital of Latvia. It is the third most populated city in the region. Baltic Sea. The first and second places are occupied by St. Petersburg and Stockholm. Riga is located on both banks of the Daugava River (Western Dvina), not far from its confluence with the Gulf of Riga. The official date of foundation of the city is 1201. Riga is divided into 6 administrative regions. The historical center of the city is located on the right bank of the Western Dvina River, about 10 km from the confluence with the Gulf of Riga.

The geographical location of Riga near the sea determines the climate of the city - moderately warm and humid. The summer months here are usually relatively cool and cloudy. Winters are relatively warm, with frequent thaws.

The history of Riga has more than 8 centuries. This is evidenced archaeological excavations, giving reason to believe that a settlement existed here already in the 12th century. At the end of the 12th century, an event recorded in the annals took place here. This is where the Crusaders came in. During the battle near the Old Riga Mountain, their first leader, Bishop Berthold, died. This is what the chronicler tells about. The next bishop moved to Riga in 1201 and began building fortifications near Lake Riga. This year is considered to be the date of foundation of Riga.

In the 13th century, the city flourished, trade grew here, and Riga became an important intermediary between west and east. During the Livonian War, in 1581, Riga fell under the rule of Poland. Later, during the war between Poland and Sweden, after a long struggle, Riga was captured by the Swedes in 1621.

During Northern war, when the struggle for dominance in the Baltic Sea is going on between Russia and Sweden, after a long siege and a plague epidemic, Riga falls under the subordination of Russia. In the second half of the 18th century there was a rapid industrial and commercial development of the city. In the 19th century Riga turned into an important port and railway point. The territory of Riga and the population are increasing significantly. At the beginning of the 20th century, Riga turns into the second largest city in the western part of Russia. The first place is occupied by St. Petersburg.

The turning point in the development of the city was the first World War. Riga is becoming a city located practically on the front line. Then a huge number of industrial workers were evacuated from the city. Toward the end of the war, it becomes possible to form an independent Republic of Latvia, which was proclaimed in 1918. Gradually, after the war, which caused considerable damage to the city, in the 20-30s. industrial, commercial and cultural development Riga.

During World War II, Soviet troops occupied Latvia in 1940. During the restoration of the sovereignty of the country, the capital of Latvia becomes the center of the Atmoda (Awakening) movement. In 1991, the inhabitants of Latvia gathered at the barricades in order to resist a possible invasion of the Soviet military forces.

One of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in Riga is Arcadia Park. In 1808, a private garden was planted here, later purchased by the Riga City Council. It was expanded, planted with new seedlings, bridges and new paths were built.

Many beautiful churches, houses from the Middle Ages, and castles have survived to this day in Riga. The oldest is the Riga Castle, which was founded in 1330. In 1642, when Riga was occupied by Sweden, a new wing was added, which has been preserved in its original form and has come down to our days. In 1938 interior interiors the castle was changed to the needs of the Latvian government. Now the residence of the Latvian President is located in the Riga Castle. In addition, the castle houses several museums: foreign art, history of Latvia, literature, theater and music.

The House of Cats was built in 1910. According to legend, it was built by a rich merchant, who was not wanted to be accepted into the Guild, and installed cats on it, which were turned back to the Guild. After lengthy proceedings, the merchant's case was settled, and the cats were turned to face the Guild.

The Dome Cathedral and the monastery began to be built in 1211. Construction continued for several centuries. The ninety-meter tower acquired its final form in 1766. At the end of the 19th century, an organ was built especially for the cathedral, which was one of the largest in the world. Modern look Domskaya Square acquired in 1935. Low-value buildings were demolished, the area became more spacious. Fairs, concerts and other various holidays and events are held here today.

The Swedish gates were cut into the Riga fortress wall in 1689. According to legend, the building where the gate is now located was the property of a merchant. He, in order not to pay duties on the import of goods, cut such a passage through his house. These are the only city gates in Riga that have survived in their original form.

Ethnographical museum open-air was created in 1924. Collected here from different places real buildings that characterize the way of life of Latvians: peasant estates, public buildings. In the museum you can see a mill, several churches, a forge, a tavern. There is a souvenir shop where you can buy memorable gifts for yourself and your friends.

Riga has many opportunities for recreation and entertainment. Here at any time of the year you can go on an excursion or engage in outdoor activities. In order to get to know the city better, you should go for a walk around Riga on foot, or by bike, or by tourist bus. In addition, you can ride on boats that sail along the Daugava River and introduce you to the history of the city.

For those who like more mobile and extreme vacation, you should visit the adventure park, go canoeing. In winter, you can go skating or skiing on specially equipped tracks. And not far from Riga there are winter recreation complexes with slides for skiing and snowboarding.

Riga is the capital of Latvia, ancient capital Eastern Baltic - the capital of the Livonian Order. The capital of Latvia, Riga, is located on the banks of the Daugava River (Western Dvina), at its confluence with the Gulf of Riga of the Baltic Sea.

Riga is the capital of the Livonian Order. Trading settlements on the territory of Riga already existed in the 10th - 11th centuries. In written sources, Riga was first mentioned in 1198, as a city - from 1201. In the 13th - 16th centuries. Riga, large center transit trade and crafts, was the capital first of the Archbishopric of Riga (Catholic Principality in Livonia), then, until 1561, of the Livonian Order - a Catholic and military-political organization of the Knights of the Teutonic Order in the Eastern Baltic .

During this period, the city of Riga was German in terms of population. In the narrow medieval streets of the Old Town, historical center Riga, preserved monuments of those times. In 13 st. the Romano-Gothic Dome Church and the Church of Ekab (rebuilding of the 14th and 18th centuries), the Gothic Church of Peter (13th - early 14th centuries, rebuilt in the 14th, 15th, 17th centuries), the Church of Yan (rebuilt in the 15th, 16th centuries .). The castle of the Livonian Order was erected in 1330 (it was rebuilt in the 15th - 19th centuries, now it is the residence of the president). Fragments of city fortifications of the 13th-15th centuries have also been preserved.

Riga as part of the Commonwealth and Sweden. Freed from the power of the Livonian Order in 1561, Riga already in 1581 came under the rule of the Commonwealth, in 1621 it was conquered by the Swedes. This period in the history of the city is reminiscent of residential buildings of the 15th - 17th centuries, including the so-called Reitern House (1684 - 1688, architect R. Bindenshu), Dannenstern House (1694 - 1698).

Riga within the Russian Empire. In 1710 Latvia and Riga were conquered by the Russians. In the 18th - 19th centuries. the city of Riga was one of the major ports and trading centers of the Russian Empire with a multinational population (about 500 thousand people in 1905). During this period, buildings in the style of classicism appeared in Riga - the Peter-Pavila Church (1780 - 1786, architect S. Zege, K. Haberland), the arsenal warehouse (1828 - 1832, architect I. Lukini (?), J. Shpatsir) and others. At the turn of the 19th - 20th centuries. 5–6-storey apartment buildings and front doors were built public buildings in the spirit of eclecticism, modernity, neoclassicism.

Interesting fact. The legend of the House of Cats in Riga, a building built in 1910 by a wealthy local merchant who was not wanted to be accepted into the Guild, where the Germans ruled, is noteworthy. The merchant ordered to install statues of cats on the house, facing the Guild building with their backs. The cats took a more proper position only after the affairs of the disgruntled merchant were settled.

Riga - the capital of the Republic of Latvia in 1918 - 1940. At this time, the Statue of Liberty appeared in the city (1935, sculptor K. Zale). Freedom is symbolized by a woman holding three stars in her hands - the provinces of Latvia - Kurzeme (Courland), Vidzeme (Livland), Latgale (Latgale).

Riga - the capital of Soviet Latvia in 1940-1991(with the exception of 1941 - 1944 - the period of occupation by the Nazi troops). In the post-war years, restoration work was carried out, the construction of new residential areas, squares, bridges and highways was launched. The 21-storey building of the Academy of Sciences of the Latvian SSR in the spirit of Stalinist classicism (1950-1957, architects V. Apsitis, O. Tilmanis and others) has become a symbol of the times.

It is also the largest city in the Baltic States. It is located on both banks of the Western Dvina (Daugava) River, not far from its confluence with the Gulf of Riga of the Baltic Sea. Population - 700 107 people (2011).

The city is divided into 6 administrative districts: Central District, Ziemelsky District, Latgale Suburb, Vidzeme Suburb are located on the right bank of the Daugava River, Kurzeme District and Zemgale Suburb are on the left bank.

The historical center of Riga is located on the right bank of the Daugava, about 10 kilometers from the place where the river flows into the Gulf of Riga and is listed world heritage UNESCO.

Climate

The climate in Riga is determined by the proximity of the sea - moderately warm and humid.

Summers are usually relatively cool and cloudy (average air temperature in July is +16.9 °C; average rainfall is 85 mm).

Winters are relatively warm, with frequent thaws (average temperature in January is minus 4.7 °C, thaws occur about 10 times a month). Snow cover forms in late December and persists until mid-February, early March.

Approximately 40% of the days of the year are cloudy, the amount of precipitation is 700-720 mm per year.

Population

reflection rich history The city is both its past and present ethnic composition. From the founding of Riga in the 13th century until the end of the 16th century, the city had an almost exclusively German population. The German administration supported the ethno-linguistic segregation of the city, which was a German-speaking island in the Baltic-speaking area, trying to preserve the right of exclusive use of its infrastructure through a series of discriminatory restrictions on the presence of Latvians in the city.

In the XVI-XIX centuries, the city was ruled by the Commonwealth, and then Russian empire. The Germans are gradually losing their exclusive privileges, although they retain control over the economic and partly political and religious life of the city. The ethno-linguistic composition is significantly diversified. Jews, Russians, Poles, Lithuanians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, etc. appear in the city.
In the first half of the 20th century, the city experienced a series of tragic events associated with revolutions and world wars, which was reflected in its demographic history.

Today the city is distinctly multinational. Its national composition: Latvians - 42.39%; Russians - 40.88%; Belarusians - 4.17%; Ukrainians - 3.84%; Poles - 1.98%; Jews - 1.06%; others and those who did not choose their nationality - 5.69%. Thus, the population of the city consists of two main communities: Russian and Russian-speaking (Ukrainians, Belarusians, Jews, Poles, etc.), and Letto-speaking (Latvians).

It is interesting to note that the Russian-speaking population lives more in the microdistricts built during the Soviet era, while the Latvians are closer to the city center. For example, the largest proportion of Latvians in the Central region of Riga - 60.9% of the population, and the smallest in Kurzeme - 36.4% of the total population.

Shopping in Riga

Supermarkets are usually open from 8:00 to 22:00-23:00. Saturdays and Sundays grocery stores are open, while clothing stores and others are either closed or have reduced hours.

The main shopping places in Riga are Old city: Valnu Street (from the Powder Tower to the Hotel De Rome) and the adjacent Basteja Passaza - a large concentration of fashion stores and boutiques of famous brands. Jekaba barracks, where mainly souvenir shops are located, and where you can buy amber jewelry. Gallery Centrs - shopping arcade in the center of the Old City (more than 100 stores, mostly tax free). Small streets of Tirgonyu and Laipu (souvenirs, galleries, antiques).

In the centre: Elizabetes street (from Kr. Valdemara to Marijas) with fashionable shops, an arcade in the Reval Hotel Latvia and a shopping "town within a city" - Berga Bazaars near the street. Cr. Baron. Terbatas street - a good place to buy shoes and clothes. There are boutiques of famous brands here. On main street Rigi - Brivibas also has many shops. Origo and Stockmann shopping centers are located near the station. Large shopping centers (Alfa, Domina Shopping, Spice, Mols) located away from the center are also a good place to shop.

Tourists are advised to purchase original Latvian souvenirs made of amber, gold, silver, natural linen clothes, wooden toys, dolls. Be sure to visit the central market, try smoked chicken, fish and many other local delicacies.

In Riga, there is a widespread network of stores - tax free, which allow you to return 15% of the purchase amount.

Currency exchange

You should be careful when exchanging currencies at small points located in the center of Riga. A “legal fraud” scheme flourishes here, when money is exchanged at a low rate, information about which is practically not readable.

For example, at the declared rate of 70.1 lats for 100 euros, money can be exchanged at the rate of 60.5 lats for 100 euros. Often, on the stands, a bad exchange rate (60.5/100) is written on top of a good one (70.1/100) in small letters on a separate piece of paper hanging crookedly to the side on adhesive tape. A favorable exchange rate means "when exchanging from 500 euros". Points with a "dual" exchange rate are most often located in the Old City, but they can also be found in remote areas.

Transport in Riga

Riga International Airport is the leading airport in Latvia and the largest and most important airport in the Baltic States in terms of cargo and passenger traffic. Direct flights from Riga international airport can be reached in 31 countries of the world located on three continents. The airport is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia.

The state airline of Latvia - Riga Central Station - is a major railway junction, where the routes of intercity, passenger trains, commuter trains begin, and it is also a cargo transportation center. A direct railway connection connects Riga with Moscow and St. Petersburg. Serves all railway network countries Latvian Railway.

Riga International Bus Station - has 33 platforms where buses come and go to cities in Latvia and Europe.

Riga Passenger Port - connects Riga with Stockholm (Sweden), Lübeck (Germany) and other cities in Sweden and Germany. IN summer season works ferry crossing on Saarema (Estonia).

On weekdays and Saturdays, all parking lots in the city center are paid: from ~0.8 to 2 LVL in business center and 5-8 LVL in the old town. Parking fines (20 LVL, yellow sheet on the windshield) are issued without the presence of the driver.

Public transport is well developed: buses, trolleybuses, trams, fixed-route taxis. There are many ordinary taxis (call is free), fares are divided into daytime - up to 0.5 LVL per 1 km and up to 1.5 LVL per landing, and nighttime - 20% more expensive than daytime.

Riga parks and gardens

Vermanes Park - oldest park on the territory of the city. Founded in 1813.

Ziedondarzs- is located in central area. Founded in 1937-1939.

Kronvalda park– one of the central Riga parks; located on both banks of the Riga City Canal; named after the outstanding Latvian linguist of the second half of the 19th century, Atis Kronvald.

Viestura Garden- the modern name of the first public garden in the history of Riga, which was founded in 1721 by Peter I under the name of the First Royal Park(Petrovsky Park), and this name was assigned to it until the reconstruction of 1923, when it was renamed the Viestura Garden.

Esplanade Park- located in the city center. The area of ​​the park is 8.7 hectares. It grows 10 native species trees and shrubs (for example, the common hornbeam), as well as 82 introduced species.

Sights of Riga

House of the Blackheads) - an architectural monument of the XIV century, located in the very center of Riga. The building has been rebuilt several times. During the Second World War it was destroyed. Restored today.

Built during the occupation of the order (1330-1353), the first documentary mention in 1334 ( new house big guild). At the end of the 15th century, it was leased to the Chernogolovs in 1713, and according to other sources, in 1687 it became their property and received its current name, before that the romantic “King Arthur’s Court” was more often used.

- the residence of the President of Latvia. One of the most historically and culturally significant buildings in the Latvian capital.

The history of the Riga Castle dates back to 1330, when its construction was started by the Livonian knights who were forced out of the then city limits. After the destruction of the old order castle in the center of Riga, the master of the Livonian Order moved to the newly built castle, but due to constant strife with the townspeople, his residence was moved to Venden (Cēsis) in the 15th century.

During the next conflict between the order and the residents of Riga, the order castle in 1484 was practically destroyed. Under the terms of the peace, the inhabitants of Riga were obliged to restore the fortifications, which was carried out in 1497-1515.

swedish gate(Swedish Gate)- cultural monument, architectural complex located in several houses on Tornja street.

At the beginning of the 17th century, actively built up residential buildings section of the city wall in the area of ​​today's Tornja street. It was necessary to equip a closed passage to the new buildings. For this purpose, in 1698, during the Swedish rule, a new city gate was broken through the wall of a residential building, the only one that has survived in its original form to this day.

This area was once defensive tower Jurgen (sometimes called Yuryevskaya in Russian sources), the lower part of this semicircular high tower was later built into house No. 11 adjacent to the gate. In 1926, the Swedish Gate was rented from the city by the Society of Latvian Architects, and the house was rebuilt according to its new purpose .

After the reconstruction, the buildings acquired a look authentic to the time when this architectural monument appeared. The pediment, portals, consoles with masks were given characteristic baroque features. Two houses (later a third) formed an architectural complex, which today houses the Union of Latvian Architects, a library and a studio.

- the only tower that has survived to this day, an element of the city fortification system, today it is the Military Museum of Latvia. The tower was first mentioned in an annalistic source in 1330 in connection with the conquest of the city by the troops of the Livonian Order.

Dome Cathedral- the Cathedral of the city of Riga, its symbol and one of the main attractions. Currently - the main church building of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia. The cathedral was founded on July 25, 1211, St. Jacob's Day, by Bishop of Riga Albrecht von Buxhoevden.

The main attraction of the Dome Cathedral is its organ, installed in 1883-1884. The organ was made by E.F.Walcker & Co from Ludwigsburg. It replaced the former instrument, which had been in operation since the end of the 16th century (about 280 years).

In early 2011, the restoration of the Dome Cathedral and the monastery adjacent to it began. This was made possible thanks to the financial support of the European Regional Development Fund.

The reconstruction should last 10 years and 38 million lats will be invested in it. In the first two years, it is planned to restore the roof of the cathedral, its tower, facades, stained-glass windows, as well as most of the interior. This restoration plays an important role in the preservation of this architectural structure.

St. Peter's Church- one of the symbols and one of the main attractions of the city of Riga (Latvia). The oldest religious building in the city, first mentioned in 1209. The church is famous for its original, recognizable spire (the total height of the church tower is 123.5 meters, of which 64.5 meters falls on the spire).

St. James's Cathedral is a brick Gothic monument, the fourth largest church in Riga, the main Catholic church in Latvia. For several centuries (starting from the period of Swedish rule and ending in the mid-20s of the last century) it was a Lutheran cathedral church.

(The Nativity of Christ Cathedral)– Latvian cathedral church Orthodox Church, located near the Statue of Liberty (Brivības street, 23).

(Three Brothers) is an architectural complex located in the center of Old Riga on Maza Pils Street (Small Castle Street). A characteristic example of the architecture of medieval Riga.

The houses that form an architectural complex are located on a picturesque street in the Old Town, opposite the building of the former Charles Lyceum. The residential development of this quarter is so dense that each of the houses is a continuation of the neighboring one. Before the oldest Three brothers there is a small platform with a porch and stone steps. Also, on the house there is a stone marker with a forged property right, which served as the address of the house. These three buildings are located at Maza Pils 17 (White Brother), Maza Pils 19 (Middle Brother), Maza Pils 21 (Green Brother).

The middle brother and the Green brother are younger and there is no longer a playground in front of them. In the Three Brothers complex, each of the buildings shows different periods in the development of residential building construction in medieval Latvia. Today there are: the State Inspectorate for the Protection of Cultural Monuments, the Union of Latvian Architects, the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the editors of the magazine "Latvijas Architektūra" ("Latvian Architecture").

- an architectural monument of the late 17th century. Built in the period from 1684 to 1688 in an organic combination of Dutch classicism and baroque styles, commissioned by the wealthy Riga merchant Johann von Reitern, who made his fortune in the trade of wood, coffee and wine. The executor of the order, most likely, was the chief construction master of the city (and concurrently the chief city water carrier) Rupert Bindenshu, one of the most famous architects of Riga. As a reward for the work done, the author received a silver goblet from the customer.

- a building in the central part of the Old Town of Riga, built in 1909 by the architect Friedrich Scheffel in the late rational modern style. At the moment it is one of the most "legendary" buildings in the Old Town.

Both cats are extremely symmetrical, they adorn the turrets above the intersections of Meistaru and Maza Smilshu (Small Sandy) and Meistaru - Zirgu (Horse) streets.

There is an old unverified legend according to which the wealthy homeowner Blumer (Plume), dissatisfied with the fact that he was not allowed to become a member of the Riga Great Guild, the representative body of the Riga merchants, undertook an act of psychological retribution. He ordered sculptural images of black cats with curved backs and placed them on the pointed turrets of his tenement house, located on opposite side Meistaru street (at the present address Meistaru street 10/12).

However, to complete the picture, these cats had their tails turned towards the windows of the office of the elder of the Big Guild, so that the non-diplomatic aspect fell just in the most vulnerable spot. According to one of the branches of this traditional guide and excursion tale, a lawsuit was started against Blumer, but legal measures could not be obtained from Blumer so that the cats were turned around, since Blumer was good friend judges or paid generous bribes to frequently changing judges, who in the verdict with all responsibility stated that these cats walk by themselves, they are free animals and without them Riga will lose part of its architectural richness.

It is difficult to say when the peace treaty was concluded with the obstinate and uncompromising gentleman by the name of Blumer (Plume), but in the end, sooner or later, the cats were deployed in the “correct” angle.

- installed on the site of the monument to Peter the Great during the time of independent Latvia in 1935. The monument is a high stele. At the base there are sculptures and bas-reliefs representing various pages of the country's history, including an image of Latvian riflemen. At the top stands Freedom itself in the form of a woman with three stars - a symbol of the three provinces of Latvia - Kurzeme (Courland), Vidzeme (Livland) and Latgale (Latgale). The inscription "Tēvzemei ​​un Brīvībai" - "To the Motherland and Freedom" is carved on the monument.

After the accession of Latvia to the USSR in 1940, they wanted to demolish the monument, but thanks to the intervention of the famous sculptor V. I. Mukhina, it was saved

- TV and radio broadcasting tower in Riga (Latvia), built between 1979 and 1986. The height of the TV tower is 368.5 meters, which makes it the most tall building in the Baltic States, the third tallest building in Europe after the Ostankino and Kyiv TV towers.

– post clock of the original tower construction, located in the center of Riga.

Current time in Riga:
(UTC+2)

Brief Phrasebook

In the capital of Latvia - Riga - they speak mainly Latvian, and tourists are served in English, German and Russian. But to feel more comfortable on vacation, you can learn a few words and phrases in Latvian - this way it will be easier for you to communicate with people in Riga.

Hello - Sveicinati.

Goodbye - Uz redzēšanos.

What is your name? — Kā tevi sauc?

Please - Ludzu.

The check, please! — rēķins Rēķinu, lūdzu!

Thank you Paldies.

How to get there

Airplane

The most common way to get to Riga is by air. Riga Airport of the same name is located near the city center. Landing at Riga airport, it will take you only 20 minutes to get to central streets Riga.

The way from the airport "Riga" to the city can be covered by taxi, public transport, individual transfer(in this case you will be met with a sign with your name at the airport). The fare starts from 70 santims (1 euro).

The airport has international status and is the largest in all of Latvia. The state airline is Air Baltic, which delivers passengers to 31 countries.

Direct flights

Transaero, Aeroflot, UTair, and airBaltic operate daily flights from Moscow to Riga. Regular flights Moscow - Riga are made from Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo airports.

You can fly from St. Petersburg to Riga by Aeroflot, UTair, and also by airBaltic. Planes of the Saint-Petersburg-Riga direction take off from Pulkovo Airport.

Connecting flights

In addition to the obvious option to get to Riga from various cities of Russia with a connection in Moscow and St. Petersburg, there are other ways: both from the Russian capital and from the regions, various European airlines connecting at their home airports. Below we list these airlines (cities of connections are indicated in brackets).

• Czech Airlines (Prague): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov-on-Don, Perm Samara, Ufa.
• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara. You can also fly from Moscow and St. Petersburg with a connection in Munich.
• Finnair (Helsinki): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg.
• Aero Svit (Kyiv): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Norwegian Airlines (Oslo): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Turkish Airlines (Istanbul): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Rostov, Ufa, Sochi, Novosibirsk.

Train

Another way to get to Riga is by train. The visiting card of Riga - the central railway station - connects the capital of Latvia with major cities of Russia (Moscow and St. Petersburg), being not only a railway junction passenger traffic but also as a shipping hub.

Trains of the route Moscow - Riga depart, which is logical, from the Rizhsky railway station. Several trains run from Moscow to Riga, in which there are both reserved seat, general carriages, as well as compartment and SV-class carriages.

Fast passenger train "Latvijas Ekspresis" - "Latvia" runs once a day. Train No. 1, whose departure time is at 19:10, arrives at the Central Station of Riga at 10:05 in the morning. Train number 2 in the direction Riga - Moscow, whose departure time is at 16:20 from the central station of Riga, arrives in Moscow at 9:47 in the morning.

All trains Riga direction crossing the border. Train No. 1 in the direction Moscow - Riga arrives at the Russian border (Sebezh) at about 5 am, trains No. 2 and No. 4 - in the evening at 8 and 10 hours, and train No. 3 passes the Russian-Latvian border at 7 am. During the stay at the border passes customs control.

You can get to Riga from St. Petersburg by train from the Vitebsky railway station in St. Petersburg at 20:55 pm and arrive in Riga (central station) at 9:00 am. The Riga-St. Petersburg train departs at 18:50 and arrives at Vitebsky Station at 9:00 in the morning.

Ferry

From St. Petersburg to Riga can be reached by ferry service on the route St. Petersburg - Stockholm - Riga. This is the most best option for those who have conceived a sea cruise from Russia to Riga.

Bus

Routes St. Petersburg - Riga via Russian Pskov or Estonian Narva are today the main routes to Riga. The trip lasts approximately 14 hours. All buses arrive at the Riga International Bus Station.

Bus route Moscow - Riga on the road for more than 16 hours. The bus schedule and ticket prices must be checked on the Riga bus station website, which is conveniently located in the central part of the city.

Regular bus routes run from Riga to the countries of Scandinavia and Europe. You can find out the ticket price and book a seat on the website 1188.lv or call 1188.

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