A few kilometers from Riga is the spa and health resort Jurmala, which consists of over 17 different villages. Pine forests and dunes and the famous spa are among the attractions. Two of the beaches in Jurmala, Majori and Bulderi were awarded the Blue Flag standard for environmentally friendly and clean. Another resort is Sigulda (founded in the 13th century), situated inland on the banks of the Gauja. The ruins and caves of the region invite you to explore. Those looking for relaxation in unspoilt nature, takes place, wonderful flora and rich fauna in Kurzeme (Courland), Vidzeme (Livonia) and Latgale (Lettgalien), which are ideal for hiking.
In Latgale, there are very many lakes, including the Lubanssee (the largest lake in Latvia) and the Dridzisee. Stands in the Zemgale province near the town of Bauska (about 77 km south of Riga, near the Lithuanian border), the largest Baroque castle in the country, the Rundale Palace. Architect of this magnificent blend of Baroque architecture and Rococo art was the Italian Bartolomeo Rastrelli, who also designed the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. Rundale Palace was the 18th Century built the castle park is laid out on the French model.
Riga
Riga, the capital of Latvia is one of the most beautiful cities in the Baltic. The architectural diversity is large, which is especially evident through the old cathedral. Elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classicism make their appeal.
The former palace of Peter the Great in the vicinity of the cathedral was rebuilt several times and restored. From the tower of the palace is an excellent view over the city. The old town has been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is a listed building. Entire streets with art nouveau houses have been preserved. Beginning of the 13th Century, the St. James Church in the transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic architecture was built. The cornerstone of the former residence of the Teutonic Order was established in 1330, this castle with the only remaining city gate, the Swedish Gate, now houses several museums, including the Latvian History Museum. North of the castle is also the Peter and Paul Cathedral (late 18th century). In the little house once guild craftsmen came together in the house of the great guild sat the merchants. The double-aisled old guild room is now used by the Philharmonic. Riga’s most famous landmark is the 137-m high wooden tower of St. Peter’s Church. St. John’s Church (14th century) is one of the most beautiful buildings of the former bishop’s seat. The medieval town houses, including the so-called three brothers (the oldest stone-built house in Riga) and 24 warehouses in the old town, are other architectural jewels of Riga.
The many museums offer informative exhibitions on urban and regional history. The Museum of city-building, shipbuilding and maritime history has been 1773rd A treasure trove of national art is the Latvian National Art Museum. In contrast, the Museum of Foreign Art works mainly Flemish masters. A visit to the Museum of medical history should be part of any sightseeing. In 1924 created nearly 100-acre outdoor museum are rural residential and farm buildings from the 16th-19th To inspect century, compiled from various regions. The most important landmark is the Statue of Liberty in the Liberty Avenue. The female figure and the amount of her and the three stars symbolize Latvia Latvian provinces Vidzeme, Kurzeme and Latgale.
