Riga, Latvia - Ideas?

Places you have visited,recommend etc.
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Viktor Kauer
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Joined: Tue May 05, 2009 7:26 pm

Riga, Latvia - Ideas?

Post by Viktor Kauer »

I am visiting the capital of Latvia, Riga, in August with my dad and grandfather, and was just wondering if anyone had been there in the past, and if there is anything there interesting or relating to either the war or other historical points in and around the city?

Any ideas and any other information regarding the city woud be much appreciated!

Thanks,

Kauer
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mario33
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Location: Poland / aus Tirol

Re: Riga, Latvia - Ideas?

Post by mario33 »

Latvia is a beuatiful country, although heavily struck with current financial crisis. Quite lot to see as its a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage city...

For war/occupation related items see Museum of the Occupation of Latvia 1940-1991 (website http://www.omf.lv/index.php?lang=english ). Museum contains sections devoted to both Nazi and Soviet occupation.
You may also see the Latvian War Museum (http://www.karamuzejs.lv/en/index.php) with special section covering Latvia during 2ww.

Remember that official stance is that ppl collaborating with any of the occupants are traitors. Those include Waffen SS volunteers. This is well reflected in descriptions being used throught all the museums:
The exposition’ authors do not speak about the right side, contrary – visitor is instigated to make a suggestion that both sides [i.e. Nazi and Soviet] have not been right.

If you're interested in more distant past and naval history of Latvia you shoud also see: and Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation (http://www.rigamuz.lv/km/index.php?m=izvelne&l=en)

Try to get out for a day or two to the seaside - to Jurmala, or better still (less crowded) Liepaja. Fantastic beach sand...

For other ideas and 'how to' - start with travel guide: http://wikitravel.org/en/Riga

Map of the center: http://www.latviaphoto.com/rigamaps/map ... 0x2400.jpg

Municiaplity of Riga website: http://www.riga.lv/EN/Channels/About_Riga/default.htm
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Viktor Kauer
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Re: Riga, Latvia - Ideas?

Post by Viktor Kauer »

Thanks a lot for the information Kamerad, really helps to find someone in the know!

:D
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andy d
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Re: Riga, Latvia - Ideas?

Post by andy d »

I really enjoyed the occupation museum. Some very moving stories, and excellent displays too.
The Latvian War Museum is also worth a visit - it is located in the middle of the town, in the old powder tower. Somewhat eclectic, but some nice stuff.
If you get a chance, right next to the airport is a cracking open air aircraft museum. But it is pretty tricky finding the guy to let you in. It seems to be hit or miss as to whether he is open or not, but they have some great aircraft. Well worth going to the airport early and trying your luck.
Architecturally, Riga has some stunning buildings including the Blackheads House, the castle, and more churches than you can shake a stick at.
For eating out, Rozegrals is superb - authentic medieval food (none of your potatoes here me boy!) Make sure you are not wearing sunglasses, cos it's bloody dark inside.
You will love it
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