Riga revealed: the ultimate guide to the jewel of the Baltics

A bit of context

Riga's story unfolds like the layers of a magnificent onion, each peel revealing a chapter in its rich tapestry. The Daugava River, a vital trade route since the Viking Age, cradles the city where the ancient Liv tribe first settled. In 1201, a German bishop, intent on spreading Christianity, arrived on the scene. The construction of a stone castle marked the birth of Riga and the beginning of a long period of German dominance.

This era laid the foundation for Riga's prosperity. As a member of the powerful Hanseatic League, the city thrived as a trading hub. Merchants from across Europe flocked to its bustling port, and magnificent structures like the Riga Dome Cathedral rose in testament to the city's wealth. Cobbled streets became arteries for commerce, while imposing guild houses whispered tales of Riga's influential traders.

Centuries flowed like the Daugava, bringing political winds of change. Riga shifted between Polish, Swedish, and Russian rule, each chapter leaving its mark. The grand boulevards and imposing architecture of the 19th century owe much to the influence of the Tsars. Yet, a strong Latvian identity simmered beneath the surface, a testament to the enduring spirit of the people.