Culture of Liepaja. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Begin to explore the city visiting the main square, Rožu laukums. In the 18th century, there has been a large market there; in 1910 it was moved and the historic square was renovated. A large garden was laid out around it. In total, the garden has more than 5 hundred rose bushes planted in it. Today Rožu laukums square is considered the most picturesque place in the city.

The nearby Church of the Holy Trinity was founded in 1758. The main decoration of the old church is a huge organ that was created by outstanding masters of the past centuries. In 1885, a unique tool has been significantly enlarged; today it is one of the largest in Europe. The church interior differs with luxury and elegance, it is made in the best traditions of the Rococo style.

In 2006, the Music Walk of Fame was opened in Liepaja, since than it has being considered a major tourist attraction. In the alley there are small bronze pedestals and tiles with handprints of outstanding musicians. The promenade is a great place for hiking. Its main decoration is considered the Amber Clock. The promenade looks particularly impressive at night. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Returning to the subject of historical attractions, it’s worth mentioning House of Peter I. This name was given to the old hotel of Madame Hoyer, where Russian tsar stayed in 1697. Today, a small house is converted into a museum which introduces features of the lifestyle of the late 17th century. It’s certainly worth to look into the House of Craftsmen. You can see interesting crafts of local artists there, and also watch the process of making souvenirs. Afterwards you can buy the most appealing product. The most important exhibit of this house-museum is amber beads considered to be the largest in the world. Their length is 123 meters, and weight is 19 kg.

Excursion programs can’t be imagined without a visit to the museum of Liepaja, which was opened in 1924. The museum is famous not only because of an abundance of unique items, but also because of a truly luxurious decor. Its rooms host historical and ethnographic artifacts, and art collections. St. Joseph Catholic Cathedral is also an important tourist attraction. Founded in the mid-18th century, it has witnessed some important historical events. Despite the fact that over the years the appearance of the cathedral has changed significantly, it hasn’t lost its religious artifacts.

If you're a science buff or just want to learn more about the world through interesting experiments, be sure to explore the ZINOO Science Museum. The museum is especially interesting with its interactive exhibits and the opportunity to see physics in action - and this will certainly appeal to young tourists who want to know everything about everything. Galerija Romas Darzs welcomes connoisseurs of fine art and architecture - the thing is that its building's exterior is equally admirable. Once it was occupied by Roma Hotel designed by the architect Pauls Makss Berči. The gallery features works by local artists of the 20th century, as well as temporary exhibitions.

The Lielais Dzintars Concert Hall is remarkable both as a venue for great concerts and as an interesting architectural monument. Designed in the shape of a large piece of amber, it evokes associations with music frozen in time. In the evening, it acquires a special charm with the help of illumination, therefore it is recommended to come here at this time. It was built in 2015, although the idea arose back in 2003. The idea itself belonged to the Austrian architect Volker Ginke who created the original masterpiece, which is now the hallmark of Liepaja.

Fans of theatrical art won't be able to walk past the Liepājas Teātris where interesting shows are often held. Its building dates back to 1907, the first play that was shown here was Anton Chekhov's "Uncle Vanya". Liepājas Jūrmalas Parks would be a perfect place to walk. Here you can find beautiful sculptures, fountains, gazebos, and several cultural institutions. One of these is the Pūt Vējiņi Concert Hall. And that's not to mention picturesque green landscapes, thanks to which it's a pleasure to stroll around the park.

Any sightseeing tour should include a visit to Karostas Cietums that was originally built as a hospital but after the revolution of 1905 was used as a military prison. The building performed its function until 1997, and today it houses a museum decorated in an authentic style offering an interesting entertainment program. Thus, “Behind Bars” performances are organized here for tourists, visitors can play espionage escape quests, and besides, you can stay overnight, buy souvenirs, and watch a film about life in Soviet times.