About this experience
At the ethnographic complex, you will learn about the past life of local fishermen, tour traditional houses, tools, and smoking sheds, learn to weave nets and smoke sprat. You will hear about the first maritime schools and the Riga shipyard. Also, you will walk on the highest dunes of Jurmala, relax on a wild beach, and visit the summer cottage of famous writers.
What to expect
Getting to know the fishermen's way of life and master classes
You will tour the ancient fishermen's houses in the former collective farm Victory and learn about their way of life. I will show you how they cultivated the land and the tools they used for weaving ropes and nets, as well as where they stored and smoked fish. I will tell you about the first maritime schools in Latvia and their founder Krisjanis Valdemars, about the Riga shipyard, and how far the ships of the Courland Duke Jacob sailed in the 17th century. If desired, you can participate in master classes: learn to weave nets, walk on stilts, smoke sprat - our 'Baltic herring' - and appreciate its divine taste.
Protected nature of Jurmala
Then you will walk on the highest dunes in the city, covered with pine forests. I will show you the trail of insects and local plants, tell you about Latvian nature and the healing properties of its gifts. And on the wild beach, you will enjoy secluded spots of the Riga Gulf.
Summer dacha of famous writers
Later, you will head to the most famous pedestrian street Jomas in search of souvenirs and atmospheric cafes. Here you will visit the house-museum of the most romantic couple in Latvia - Rainis and Aspazija, learn the secret of their enduring love for each other and Jurmala. You will see a typical summer house with a mansard from the beginning of the 20th century and get acquainted with a rare example of wooden modernist architecture, where, unlike many other buildings of this type, antique interiors have been preserved.
Resort traditions
In the city museum, you will visit an exhibition of postcards from the early 20th century, swimsuits, and various accessories typical of resorts at that time. You will learn about specific bathing hours for men and women, and when it became impossible to swim without special costumes. In addition, you will hear about Dr. Nordstem, his magical methods of treating Russian artists, and the sanatorium that local peasants called a prison.
Organizational details
- Not included in the price: transportation costs (50-60 euros), fish smoking and tasting (1 euro), ticket to the house-museum of Rainis and Aspazija (1-2 euros)
- Master classes on weaving nets, folk games, fish smoking, and tasting are held only on Thursdays and in the summer period
