Latvian Culture and History

Founded in 1201, Riga is Latvia's center of Art Nouveau. History, culture, and art are seen in its architecture and landmarks.

Stroll through this center to take in its 800 years of architecture, diverse museums, and around-the-clock activities.

The largest antique vehicle museum in the Baltics is home to a vast collection of cars, some formerly owned by Soviet politicians.

Established in 1773, this museum exhibits numerous eclectic collections dedicated to navy, society, medicine, and more.

This museum features the works of fabulous painters, sculptors, and other artists from Latvia, the Baltics, and even Russia.

Spanning picturesque landscapes, this large park is great for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, and more.

On the Gulf of Riga, Jurmala is a fabulous town for relaxing on its white sand beaches and exploring its many museums and cafes.

This must-see museum offers a comprehensive trip throughout Latvia's history, from Neolithic times to the Soviet era.

This museum offers an excellent look into Latvian design, from traditional costumes and daily attire up to 1960s modern fashion.

Ranging from the 15C-17C, these buildings represent Riga's former merchant class, and now house the Latvian Museum of Architecture.

This museum is a faithful restoration of a 1903 Art Nouveau apartment, from its moldings and layout to its furnishings and art.

Known for its wetlands, this park boasts the Great Kemeri Bog, mineral springs, Baltic Sea shores, and exceptional biodiversity.

This 18C Baroque palace has also served as a hospital and a school. Now restored, it features a museum and fine gardens.

Dating to the 13C, this church is an excellent example of how Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture developed.

This museum exhibits compelling exhibits regarding the occupation of Latvia by Nazi and Soviet forces between 1940 and 1991.

This 17C residence displays lavish period furnishings, as well as a family chapel and original wall paintings.

Gain an appreciation for Riga's wealth of elegant architecture as you stroll down this street, lined with Art Nouveau buildings.

The largest cave in the Baltics features carvings dating back to the 17C and is enveloped in ancient myths and legend.

Known for its proximity to the famous Gutmanis Cave, Sigulda is also home to castles, churches, and museums.

This 1903 medieval-style building is famous for its two angry cat statues, rumored to have been positioned to protest the Great Guild.

This 13C cathedral boasts a unique combination of architectural styles, and was restored after disuse during the Soviet era.

This late 20C replica of the original 14C merchants' guild building still boasts original vestiges in its lower level.

Travel back in time at this 9C-10C archaeological site, home to varied artifacts and restored prehistoric Latgalian wooden buildings.

This hilltop city features impressive medieval remains, inviting parks, and cultural events that showcase local tradition.

Located near the Belarussian border, the architecture and culture of Daugavpils reflect both Latvian and Soviet influences.

Wander through this relaxing garden, home to a collection of unique sculptures by Latvian artists.

Enjoy several historic landmarks, scattered among comfortable and friendly cafes.

Home to a collection of over 85,000 items, this museum exhibits items of regional archaeology, ethnography, art, and natural history.

Completed in 1905, this stunning Orthodox cathedral is unique in its spaciousness, architecture, rich decorations, and paintings.

Featuring 13C castle ruins, Rezekne is also home to lovely museums, stunning churches, a synagogue, and inviting lakes.

Founded in the 12C, this lakeside village features a ruined 15C hilltop fortress, a variety of churches, and a history museum.

Situated on 150ha of land, this 19C fortress is a must-see for its exceptional preservation, and for the Mark Rothko Art Center.

This museum boasts excellent exhibits of everyday items from the 19C-20C, including a restored apartment from that period.

A memorial to the 100-year-old cathedral that once stood here, this 21C chapel was designed in a Russian Byzantine style.

Spanning picturesque landscapes, this large park is great for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, and more.

The largest cave in the Baltics features carvings dating back to the 17C and is enveloped in ancient myths and legend.

Known for its proximity to the famous Gutmanis Cave, Sigulda is also home to castles, churches, and museums.

This 18C Baroque palace has also served as a hospital and a school. Now restored, it features a museum and fine gardens.

Bauska boasts two distinct but adjacent castles with panoramic views. It also serves as a comfortable base for regional adventures.

Founded in 1201, Riga is Latvia's center of Art Nouveau. History, culture, and art are seen in its architecture and landmarks.

Stroll through this center to take in its 800 years of architecture, diverse museums, and around-the-clock activities.

The largest antique vehicle museum in the Baltics is home to a vast collection of cars, some formerly owned by Soviet politicians.

Established in 1773, this museum exhibits numerous eclectic collections dedicated to navy, society, medicine, and more.

This museum features the works of fabulous painters, sculptors, and other artists from Latvia, the Baltics, and even Russia.

Spanning picturesque landscapes, this large park is great for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, and more.

On the Gulf of Riga, Jurmala is a fabulous town for relaxing on its white sand beaches and exploring its many museums and cafes.