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Known in its heyday as "the Paris of the East",
Riga is the largest, most vibrant city in the Baltic region.
Its history and architecture reflect the influences of Russian
and German culture on its underlying Latvian traditions.
Geography
The town is split into two parts, on the East and West banks
of the River Daugava. On the east bank you'll find Riga's
pleasant Old Town, with many medieval buildings and
also some German architecture dating from around the 17th
century. To the east of the old town, the city canal winds
between open parks which separate elegant, 19th century boulevards.
This is the ideal place for a stroll to soak up some of Riga's
special atmosphere.
Getting around
Once you've got hold of a Riga City Map, transport is simple,
as all the routes for buses, trolley-buses and trams are clearly
shown. Buses also run regularly between the airport and the
town centre. Trains are a cheap and easy way to get around
if you're planning to visit nearby towns like Jurmala on the
coast, or the moving concentration camp museum at Salaspils.
Things to see and do
- In the Old Town, Riga's brick cathedral was founded in 1211,
and next door is the fascinating Museum of the History
of Riga and Navigation. This is a great place to learn
about the growth of the city and its past as a commercial
and social centre from the 14th century to today.
- Another must-see is the Powder Tower, with its pointed
spire that's easy to spot on the city's skyline. This was
originally part of the old city wall defences, and is first
mentioned in 1330. Its walls are up to three metres thick,
and its name comes from the 17th century, when it was used
to store gunpowder. Appropriately, it now houses the Latvian
War Museum.
- Riga's continued popularity as a trade and political centre
in the 18th and 19th centuries meant that many new buildings
also went up to accommodate the growth of suburbs around the
medieval town. You might not expect it, but Riga has one of
the finest concentrations of Art Nouveau architecture
in Europe. As you walk though the city, keep your eyes peeled
for the trademark curved porches, leafy motifs, clean lines
and classical influences of the Art Nouveau style.
Nightlife
If you're after a bit of nightlife as well as some culture,
Riga's bars and clubs are plentiful, lively and affordable.
Riga also boasts the only permanent circus in the Baltics,
complete with some bizarre animal acts that are worth going
to see. Other attractions include the bright, busy market
near the bus station and some great value restaurants where
you can experience hearty Latvian cooking and hospitality,
including some excellent vegetarian fare.
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