Mākslas muzejs RĪGAS BIRŽA

"Housed within the grand 19th-century building that once served as the Riga Stock Exchange, the museum boasts an impressive collection of art spanning centuries and continents, offering visitors a captivating journey through the world of artistic expression. The building's history itself is an intriguing tale, mirroring Riga's transformation from a bustling commercial hub to a vibrant cultural center. Constructed between 1852 and 1855, the edifice epitomizes the grandeur of the era, showcasing a blend of Venetian Renaissance and Neoclassical architectural styles. Initially serving as the seat of Riga's Stock Exchange, the building witnessed the ebb and flow of commerce, its walls echoing with the clamor of financial transactions. In 1920, the building underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, shedding its commercial skin to embrace the mantle of culture. It was then that the Art Museum RIGA EXCHANGE was born, its doors opening to unveil a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. Today, the museum stands as a beacon of Latvia's cultural landscape, attracting art enthusiasts from around the globe. The museum's permanent exhibitions offer a comprehensive overview of artistic traditions from around the world. The Gleznu galerija (Painting Gallery) houses an impressive collection of Western European paintings from the 16th to the 19th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists such as Frans Hals, Peter Paul Rubens, and Rembrandt van Rijn. Venturing into the Austrumu galerija (Eastern Gallery), visitors are transported to the exotic realms of Asia, where they can marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of Japanese woodblock prints, the delicate beauty of Chinese porcelain, and the mesmerizing sculptures of ancient Egypt. For those seeking a glimpse into the opulent world of European aristocracy, the Rietumu galerija (Western Gallery) beckons. Here, a dazzling array of 18th- and 19th-century Western European porcelain, including exquisite Meissen and Sèvres pieces, adorns the walls, whispering tales of grandeur and refinement."