Riga: A City of Architectural Splendour, German and Russian Influences
After saying goodbye to my Lithuanian friends, I hopped on a bus heading north to Latvia and its capital, Riga. Though it’s also a Baltic state, Riga feels worlds apart from Vilnius—not just in atmosphere, but in architecture, culture, and history.
Art Nouveau Heaven
Riga is, quite simply, an architectural masterpiece. With its vast Art Nouveau district, the buildings compete in grandeur, each façade seemingly outdoing the next in intricate detail. If you’re an architecture lover, this city is a must-visit—it’s home to one of the world’s finest collections of Art Nouveau design.
Getting around is a breeze, thanks to an extensive tram network. Some of the trams still date back to the Soviet era, but they run like clockwork—a testament to their durability.
A Crossroads of Cultures
Riga’s rich, multicultural past is reflected in its churches—Russian Orthodox cathedrals stand just streets away from grand Lutheran and Catholic churches. The city’s Germanic influence is also unmistakable, a legacy of the once-powerful Baltic German community, which has now almost completely disappeared.
Latvia, much like its neighbours, was occupied by the Soviets and then the Nazis, before falling under Soviet rule again until 1991. Today, Russian influence is still deeply felt, both politically and culturally, as Russian speakers make up a significant portion of the population.
A Canadian Connection & A Cultural Renaissance
While exploring the city, I caught up with a Canadian friend working in finance, who gave me deeper insight into Latvia’s economy, European integration, and the lingering Russian presence. It turns out that many Latvians who emigrated to Canada during Soviet times are now returning—or at least, their children and grandchildren are—bringing fresh energy and investment to the country.
A Moment of Pure Harmony
One of my most unforgettable experiences in Riga was a visit to a Russian Orthodox cathedral, where I was lucky enough to witness a small choir singing in breathtaking polyphony. The acoustics were otherworldly, the voices soaring into the vast domed ceiling. No photos or videos were allowed—and rightly so. Some moments are meant to be lived, not recorded.
Verdict
Did I like it? Absolutely—especially for the architecture.
Would I return? Once was enough.
Would I recommend it? Without a doubt—again, for the architecture.
In a few words? Art Nouveau paradise.