Travel Guide to Riga, Latvia

Those, who are familiar with the history of Riga, are clear about the expression 'Riga is the city that constantly has to be liberated'. This trade center, founded by German merchantmen, got through various regimes and historical events. Independence of 1918, coming of Red Army in 1940, Independence of 1991 and finally joining EC – all this left an imprint on the outlook of the city.

Appearance of the political, cultural and economical centre of the country is created by fabulous buildings of modern style, marvelous parks and, of course, typical Soviet houses. The old city is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's not surprising: all these amazing houses, small shops and cozy restaurants are real masterpieces. The city on the Daugava can boast of a large number of museums, which attract so many tourists. Riga has the reputation of the most expensive Baltic city. But nevertheless this city is worth visiting.

Great Guild Hall and Small Guild Hall. Great Guild was founded in the 14th century, but the building was rebuilt for many times. Nowadays there takes place 'National Concert Hall'. The modern building of Small Guild was projected in 1866, and in 2000 it was restored for the last time. Its interior is very luxurious: amazing stained-glass windows, posh chandeliers, walls, decorated with the images of Riga sights.

The Dome Cathedral. The Dome Cathedral is an impressive mixture of romantic, gothic, Renascence, baroque and classical styles. It's a symbol of the Old City, its versatility and individuality. In the cathedral they keep one of the largest organs in the world, special works for which were written by Franz Liszt.

'Three brothers'. The architectural complex 'Three brothers' that was built in the 15th, 17th and 18th centuries contains of three houses. They are the oldest stone building in Riga. The complex gives an impression of how people used to live in the trade quarters. After painstaking restoration of the 50s the houses serve as the architectural museums of the city.

St. Maria Magdalena Catholic Church. This small church was built in the 13th century. In the 17th century it became the Sweden garrison church. During the Great Northern War they were destroyed and rebuilt again.

The Sweden Gate. The Sweden Gate is the newest and the only saved as they are of 25 gates of Riga, which used to protect the city from enemies.

St Jacob Church. St Jacob Church is the only church in Riga with 'the bell on the balcony'. It's first mentioned in 1225. Well-proportioned tower of the church stands out with the outside church bell (when traditionally they place bells inside). The church has long history and had time to serve both to the Catholics and the Lutherans. After the Reformation of the 16th century there took place first religious services of Latvian Lutheran Community. Nowadays church belongs to the Catholic Church.

Riga is marvelous at any season, but autumn is a special time there.