Exploring the city of Riga should commence with a visit to its historical heart, Old Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Among its most renowned landmarks are the Dome Cathedral and St. Peter's Church, which offers panoramic views from its observation deck. Nearby, you'll find the charming Bremen Musicians monument. A leisurely 15-minute stroll from the center leads you to the Spīķeri district, a hub for creative professionals and a venue for concerts and open-air events. Along the Daugava River embankment, take in the views of bridges and the Old Town, with the concert hall of the same name housing the Sinfonietta Rīga Chamber Orchestra and the Latvian Radio Choir. Riga also boasts a beautifully restored quarter of unique 19th-century wooden buildings, now home to local designer stores, fairs, exhibitions, and various captivating events. Lastly, don't miss the renowned Covered Market, where you can savor local delicacies like blood sausage, cheese, and the traditional "piparkukas" cookies—sweet sand dough treats with mustard and pepper that are exclusive to Latvia.
Riga
Baltic miracle
Among the post-Soviet countries, Latvia can easily lay claim to being the most "European." It has a rich history where Teutonic Knights were once celebrated heroes, Catholic archbishops held sway, and the fires of the Inquisition burned. Today, the atmosphere has transformed significantly: the streets of Brivibas are bustling with thousands of tourists, "Riga Balsam" and lesser-known tomato vodka flow freely, the scent of spicy Piparkūkas cookies fills the air, the organ of the Dome Cathedral serenades, and pork knuckles sizzle at the heart of Lido... And this is just the beginning of what awaits you in Riga!
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