| Latvia is a small country with a past not unlike that of its neighboring Baltic countries. Despite this it is undoubtedly a place with its own history and culture.
I will spend 5 days in Riga, 1 day in Cesis, and 2 days in Sigulda. With a buffer this equals 10 days in Latvia. |
| Latvia |
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| Riga
Riga is located on the site of an ancient Liv settlement. The modern town was founded by German traders, mercenaries, and religious crusaders. In 1190 an Augustinian monastery was built. Then in 1201 Riga was granted town rights. Soon it became the gateway to the Baltic�s and Russia. In 1282 the town joined the Hanseatic League. This gave the city economic and political stability. In 1522 Riga accepted the reformation and ended the power of the arch bishops. By 1581 the city was no longer part of the Holy Roman Empire, but rather part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. During the 30 Years war it was held by Sweden. By 1710 the town was mostly self-governed. This ended in 1721 when Riga was annexed to Russia. Soon it became an industrial city. On November 18, 1918 Latvia declared its independence. Between the wars Riga was referred to as the Paris of the north. During WWII the city was occupied by both the Nazi�s and the Soviet�s. Due to the Nazi�s almost one third of Latvians were killed. After the war the Soviets took control. On August 21, 1991 Latvia declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Today it is a city rich in history. Things to Do: Dom Cathedral- This is the largest church in the Baltic�s. Construction begun in 1226. St. Peter�s Church- First built in 1204 the current structure dates from 1408. You can take an elevator to the top of one of the towers for a great view. Melngalvju Nams- This medieval assembly hall has a museum that traces the buildings history located in the basement. Bikernieki Forest- This is a memorial to the Jews who were killed here during WWII. Occupation Museum- This is perhaps the best occupation museum in the Baltic�s. It discusses the countries treatment under the Soviets, Nazi�s and then again the Soviets. State Museum of Art- This museum has 18th to 20th century art from the Baltic�s and Russia. Museum of Riga�s History- This museum has a good collection on Riga�s ancient, medieval, and modern history. History of Latvia- This museum is located in a castle and explores Latvian history from prehistoric times through the 20th century. It focuses on how local culture developed. Latvian History of War- Check out the nine cannon balls still lodged in the 14th century walls. The museum seems a bit jammed together. Day Trips Salaspils Museum- This memorial marks the remains of the Kurtenhof concentration camp. An estimated 100,000 people died here. There are statues and various objects to explore. Pilsrundale- This amazing palace was completed by Catherine the Great of Russia. This will be worth a whole day to explore. Cesis People have inhabited this area since the 10th century. A town first came into existence during the 13th century. Cesis is new to tourism and comes across as very friendly. Things to Do: Castle- This castle was begun in 1206 by the Germans. It was completed in 1239. In 1703 Peter the Great left if in ruins. Still the area is nice to walk around. Cesis History Museum- This museum details the history of Cesis and its castles. Sigulda The point of coming here is the scenery. There are several parks and monuments to check out. Things to Do: Turaida Castle- Construction began on this castle in 1214. Climb the main tower for a great view. The best way to explore the grounds is on horseback. History Museum- The museum concentrates on both the castle and the people who lived in the area. Gutman�s Caves- You can see some 500 year old graffiti here. Krimulda Castle- This castle is in ruins and not much is left. However it is said to have a very authentic feel. |
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