First Date with Riga

Program

• Medieval City. To better understand the atmosphere of the city, it is necessary to visit the Riga houses, churches, and courtyards. Descending the stone steps of the Old Town, you will enter the world of the Middle Ages, where narrow winding streets alternate with small squares, and by looking up, you will see golden roosters, black cats, and other “guardians” of Riga. I will tell you about the “three rulers” of the city, show signs of this rule in the oldest part of the Riga stronghold. You will learn how the city's residents built and destroyed the Order's castle, how the Church of St. Peter turned from a small building into the tallest building in Riga.
• City of Merchants and Craftsmen. We will visit the Town Hall Square - the heart of the Old Town, where there used to be a lively market. I will tell you how it was organized. The main decoration of the square is the mysterious House of Blackheads. You will learn who the Blackheads were, how the Riga merchants treated them, why their house is one of the richest in Riga.
• City with Unusual Architecture. The most famous buildings were erected over the centuries and absorbed the craftsmanship of several generations. We will make a stop at the Dome Square, named after the Cathedral, called the Dome. It was admired by Nicholas Roerich. He also advised to attend an organ concert at the Dome. Houses from different eras overlook the Dome Square. I will tell you about the “Dome Cathedral construction school”, about the master of bourgeois classicism, and about the “Golden Age of Riga” that lasted only a few decades.
• City of Amazing Discoveries. Passing literally “through the walls”, we will see the small architectural masterpieces of Riga: Three Brothers and the Swedish Gate. I will tell you where the most cherished wishes come true, as well as how to make them correctly so that they will certainly come true. You will learn about the history of the construction of fortification walls and formidable towers, see the defender of Riga from the 15th-16th centuries - the Powder Tower. From the labyrinth of streets, we will end up in Liv Square, where the most unusual monuments of Riga are gathered: a monument to the first inhabitant, a monument to the vanished river, and a monument to two irreconcilable arguers.
• City for Foodies. There are many excellent restaurants and cozy cafes here. For a complete experience, you must taste the famous Riga Black Balsam. I will tell you the amazing history of its creation and show you the Black Magic Bar.