Vecrīga – Riga’s Old Town
Vecrīga – Riga’s Old Town – is located on the east side of Daugava River and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed as “Historic Centre of Riga”. Vecrīga has a bit of everything for everyone, but this historical hub is most famous for its old churches and cathedrals. Vecrīga used to be isolated by a wall, which eventually came down, and the waters from Daugava River formed the Riga City Canal. In Vecrīga you will witness art and architecture from Romanesque to Functionalism styles. You may also perceive the cultural diversity by looking at some of the buildings, as both Germans and Russians were involved in the development of the city as well. You can start a tour at the Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums) at the end of Kalku Street, and visit the Museum of Occupations and the House of Blackheads. Going up the St. Peter’s cathedral will guarantee you the best view of the city. On the way to the Central District from the Old Town, you will most likely pass by the busy Liv Square (Livu laukums). In winter, the square gets filled with both young and adult ice skaters and – apparently – all you hear is pop music.
Other places you ought to visit are the Dome Cathedral, Museum of War, Riga Opera House and the Riga Castle – where the President of Latvia currently lives.
If you have been to any of these places already, let us know what you think of them in the comment section down below!
