Where is Latvia?
Latvia is a small country on the Baltic Sea with ancient history and culture. Blessed with wide open country, fresh, clean and in its natural state, Latvia has the gentle climate of the seashore, and a near perfect mix of forested lands, grass meadows, small hills, and wide sunny beaches.There is THE Latvia for everybody. In this lens I share with you My Latvia, My MADE IN LATVIA - the way I see the places to visit,the nature to enjoy, the facts to know, the food to eat, the music to listen, the books to read, the people to meet.
You can make a short weekend trip first just to enjoy treasures of Riga, the capital of Latvia.
And then be sure to come back next summer and 'taste' Latvia slowly with the relaxed mind - ever green, organic food, ecologic, clean lakes, blueberries (when you eat them your mouth turns blue :), bike and horse rides, fishing and hunting, sauna, national parks and much much more.
Don't rush ! Relax, take your time, enjoy! Get inspired!
If you like this lens please CLICK HERE to Digg It.
You can make a short weekend trip first just to enjoy treasures of Riga, the capital of Latvia.
And then be sure to come back next summer and 'taste' Latvia slowly with the relaxed mind - ever green, organic food, ecologic, clean lakes, blueberries (when you eat them your mouth turns blue :), bike and horse rides, fishing and hunting, sauna, national parks and much much more.
Don't rush ! Relax, take your time, enjoy! Get inspired!
If you like this lens please CLICK HERE to Digg It.
Latvia - Country of Inspiration - Country to Discover
The country that we call Latvia today has long attracted foreigners - at first, invaders of all kinds and later travellers and adventure seekers. For example, since the 1830s the region surrounding the city of Sigulda has been called the "Switzerland of Vidzeme" by German travellers who compared the sandstone banks of the old Gauja River valley with those of the river Elba in Saxony.
Unfortunately, in the 20th century Latvia suffered through two world wars, and from 1940 until 1991 it was occupied and isolated behind the Iron Curtain by the Soviet Union. As a result, Latvia has been relegated to a "blank spot" on modern European and world tourist maps.
Today, this largely unknown land is waiting to be discovered, ready to be revealed as the colourful mosaic that is Latvia.
Unfortunately, in the 20th century Latvia suffered through two world wars, and from 1940 until 1991 it was occupied and isolated behind the Iron Curtain by the Soviet Union. As a result, Latvia has been relegated to a "blank spot" on modern European and world tourist maps.
Today, this largely unknown land is waiting to be discovered, ready to be revealed as the colourful mosaic that is Latvia.
Press the play button and listen to the beautiful and heart-felt music, while you take the tour of the Latvia with me.
- LATVIA CURRENT CULTURAL EVENTS
- A Brief History of Latvia
- "Baltic Way" August 23, 1989
- Controversial History of Latvia on Amazon
- USEFUL INFORMATION TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU EMBARK FOR LATVIA
- Latvia - Basic Facts
- Latvian Language Facts
- Learn Some Latvian
- Discover Latvia
- Accommodation in Latvia
- Latvian Culture - Personalities
- Novels of Latvian Emigrants
- ICONS OF LATVIAN CULTURE - Song and Dance Festival
- ICONS OF LATVIAN CULTURE - Amber
- ICONS OF LATVIA CULTURE - Linen
- ICONS OF LATVIA CULTURE -Nameja Ring
- Riga, the Metropolis of Art Nouveau
- Riga has "the finest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe"
- The Dome Cathedral
- Wooden Riga
- Rundale Palace - Summer Residence of the Duke of Courland ERNST JOHANN BIRON
- Aglona Basilica - pilgrimage destination of international significance
- Latvia | Culture | Facts About Latvians Worldwide
- Take this poll on Latvia. There's like one question. I promise it won't hurt.:)
- Haven For the Tourist, Who Loves Nature
- The Green Heart of Europe
- The Baltic Seacost
- Gauja National Park
- Typical Latvian Food and Drink Recipes
- Latvia | Culture | Facts About Latvians Worldwide
- Latvian Cuisine
- The Open-Air Art Museum at Pedvale
- Unique Wooden Toys For Children
- Want To Create Your Lens?
- Want to Do Business in Latvia?
- Are You Interested In Working From Home?
LATVIA CURRENT CULTURAL EVENTS
When your are on way to Latvia don't forget to check this out before you leave!
- Latvian Culture Vortal
- Everything about current events in Latvia.
- A unique exhibit from Paris at the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design
- At Old Town Riga's Museum of Decorative Arts and Design , tapestries are on display by the famous French artist Jean Lurcat(1892-1966). Also known for his ceramics and poetry, Lurcat was a master of modern French tapestry design and led the dynamic revival of tapestry weaving as an art form both inside and outside France. His works are being shown for the first time in Latvia.
- The myth of the joyful Soviet nation in the works of Latvian artists
- The Latvian National Museum of Art presents a major exhibition - "The Mythology of Sovietland" - reflecting the style of socialist realism and the ideological evolution in Latvian art from 1945 to 1985. 200 paintings, sculptures and graphic art works have been selected for this show. In LNMA's "Arsenals" Exhibition Hall in Old Town Riga.
A Brief History of Latvia
Courtesy of Latvian Institute
Ancient History of the Latvians9000 BC-13th century
The territory known today as Latvia has been inhabited since 9000 BC. In the first half of 2000 BC, the proto-Balts or early Baltic peoples arrived. They were the forefathers of the Latvian people. At the time when the proto-Balts arrived on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, ancient Finnic peoples had already long inhabited this territory. They are considered to be the early ancestors of contemporary Estonians, Finns and Livs.
Footprints of Ancient History in ethnic jewelry.
The Age of German, Polish, Swedish, and Russian Rule in Latvia 12th century-1914
Because of its strategic geographic location, the Latvian territory was frequently invaded by neighbouring nations, largely defining the fate of Latvia and its people. By the late 12th century, Latvia was increasingly visited by traders from Western Europe who used Latvia's longest river, the Daugava, as a trade route to Russia.
The Fight for Independence and the Republic of Latvia1914-1939
In the early 20th century and up until the First World War (1914-1918), the conditions were not favorable for Latvians to establish their own independent country. Latvians were also not convinced that this was possible. Nonetheless But on the 18 November 1918 the independent Republic of Latvia was proclaimed at a ceremonious meeting at the National Theatre in Riga. The lawyer Janis Cakste (1859-1927) was elected chairman of the Latvian People's Council, and the agronomist Karlis Ulmanis (1877-1942) became leader of the government.
The Loss of Independence, Second World War and Soviet Era in Latvia1939-1980s
On 23 August 1939, the Soviet Union and the German Third Reich signed a treaty of non-aggression, which contained a secret protocol concerning the division of Eastern Europe into spheres of influence. This treaty is usually referred to as the 'Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact' after the two statesmen who signed it. The 50 years long Sovietic occupation. 50 long years behind the iron curtain.
Click here to visit the Occupation Museum of Latvia
Reinstating Independence and Modern LatviaFrom the 1980s
Liberalization within the communist regime of the USSR, known as glasnost, began in the mid-1980s. During the latter half of the 1980s, the process of perestroika (restructuring) began in the Soviet Union, which was led by new Soviet communist leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
Click here to discover more
"Baltic Way" August 23, 1989
"Baltic Way" occurred on August 23, 1989 when approximately two million people joined their hands to form an over 600 kilometer (373 mi) long human chain across the three Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania).
This original demonstration was organized to draw the world's attention to the common historical fate which these three countries suffered. It marked the 50th anniversary of August 23, 1939 when the Soviet Union and Germany in the secret protocol of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact divided spheres of interest in Eastern Europe which led to the occupation of these three states.
This original demonstration was organized to draw the world's attention to the common historical fate which these three countries suffered. It marked the 50th anniversary of August 23, 1939 when the Soviet Union and Germany in the secret protocol of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact divided spheres of interest in Eastern Europe which led to the occupation of these three states.
Baltic Way / August 23, 1989
Controversial History of Latvia on Amazon
Looking at Latvia (Looking at Europe)
Amazon Price: $22.95 (as of 07/05/2009) 
Latvia in World War II (World War II: the Global, Human, and Ethical Dimension)
Amazon Price: $58.50 (as of 07/05/2009)
Diplomats Without a Country: Baltic Diplomacy, International Law, and the Cold War (Contributions to the Study of World History)
Amazon Price: $110.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact of 1939: The Baltic Case
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
EXPERIENCING TOTALITARIANISM: THE INVASION AND OCCUPATION OF LATVIA BY THE USSR AND NAZI GERMANY 1939-1991
Amazon Price: $29.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
USEFUL INFORMATION TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU EMBARK FOR LATVIA
My experience tells me that those are things you would like to know:Documents
Health Services in Latvia
Money
Communication
Electricity
Customs
Transport and communication
Latvia - Basic Facts
Latvian: Latvija
Lithuanian: Latvija
Estonian: Lati
German: Lettland
French: Lettonie
Spanish: Letonia
Swedish: Latvia
Italian: Lettonia
Latvia (Republic of Laltvia)is bordered by Estonia to the north, Russia to the east, Lithuania to the south and the Baltic Sea to the west. Its strategic location has made it an international crossroad for trade, commerce and cultural exchange since ancient times. Vikings followed the 'Amber Road' through Latvian territory along the Daugava River to reach Byzantium and the Mediterranean Sea.
Major cities: Daugavpils, Liepaja, Rezekne, Ventspils, Jelgava, Jurmala
Area: 64 589 km² or 24,937 sq.miles
Border: 1,862 km
Coastline: 494 km
Population: 2.27 million (2007)
Religions: Evangelic Lutheran, Roman Catholic and Russian Orthodox
Language: Latvian (official). English, Russian and German are also widely spoken
Currency: 1 'Lats' (LVL) = 100 'santims'
Average exchange rate(2007) 1 LVL = 1.42 EUR
GDP growth: 11,9% (2006). GDP growth rate average over last 5 years - 9%
GDP / capita: 7002 EUR (2006)
Inflation: 6,5% (2006), Inflation annual average over last 5 years - 4,0%
Main exports: Timber and wood products, fish and fish products
Membership:
European Union,
NATO,
United Nations,
Council of Europe,
World Trade Organisation,
Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe,
Council of the Baltic Sea States, etc.
Latvian Language Facts
Latvian belongs to the Baltic branch of the Indo-European language family. Writing system: Roman script. It is spoken by about 1.5 million people in Latvia.
Latvian is also spoken by abroad - in Australia, Belarus, Brazil, Canada, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, New Zealand, Russia, Sweden, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Venezuela and Finland.
About 1.6 million people worldwide claim Latvian as their primary language and 500, 000 - second language.
Latvian is the official language of the Republic of Latvia. It was given the status of the official state language in 1989, two years prior to the country's independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991.
Today, Latvian is used in all official spheres of activity. It is the dominant language of the mass media, although Russian, English, Swedish, and other minority languages are also used in newspapers and broadcasts. Latvian is used in the school system at all levels.
Learn Some Latvian
Latvian-English English-Latvian Dictionary (Hippocrene Practical Dictionary)
Amazon Price: $13.22 (as of 07/05/2009)
Latvian-English/English-Latvian Dictionary & Phrasebook
Amazon Price: $9.56 (as of 07/05/2009)
Colloquial Latvian: The Complete Course for Beginners (Colloquial Series)
Amazon Price: $34.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
MLS Easy Immersion Latvian Pro
Amazon Price: $29.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
Runasim Latviski
Lets Speak Latvian!
Sveiks! Hi! Hello!
Labdien! Hello! (Good Day)
Labrit! Good Morning
Labvakar! Good Evening
Uz redzesanos! I'll see you (good-bye)
Ja Yes
Ne No
Ludzu Please
Paldies Thankyou
Lonely Planet Language Guides
Discover Latvia
Latvia, 5th (Bradt Travel Guide)
Amazon Price: $18.71 (as of 07/05/2009)
The Rough Guide to The Baltic States - 2nd Edition
Amazon Price: $14.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
Latvia
Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
Lonely Planet Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
Amazon Price: $23.39 (as of 07/05/2009)
Lonely Planet Eastern Europe
Amazon Price: $19.13 (as of 07/05/2009)
Accommodation in Latvia
In Latvia you can choose between Hotels, Camping places, Farmhouses or Youth hostels. Enjoy!
- Hotels
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- Camping places
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- Farmhouses
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- Youth hostels
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Latvian Culture - Personalities
There are many cultural assets in Latvia worthy of the word icon. We have the Song Festival, we have wonderful examples of art and architecture, we have world class theatre and a heritage of spoken folklore. And yet, behind everything we call icons or cornerstones of Latvian culture there are people who have created all these assets with their talent, work and, ultimately, their lives.
These are the people the world knows Latvia by . The people without whom Latvian culture wouldn't be what it is. Which out knowing their work, your idea of Latvian culture would be incomplete.
Join me and get to know them.
Novels of Latvian Emigrants
Soviet occupation broke lives of many. The novels of Latvian immigrants are moving. Certainly worth reading.
The Testimony of Lives: narrative and memory in post-soviet Latvia
Amazon Price: $53.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
The Rings of My Tree: A Latvian Woman's Journey
Amazon Price: $12.56 (as of 07/05/2009)
A Visitor from Latvia
Amazon Price: $21.00 (as of 07/05/2009)
A Woman in Amber: Healing the Trauma of War and Exile
Amazon Price: $10.88 (as of 07/05/2009)
Tale of the White Crow: Coming of Age in Post-Soviet Latvia
Amazon Price: $15.00 (as of 07/05/2009)
ICONS OF LATVIAN CULTURE - Song and Dance Festival
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This Baltic phenomenon is unique for the whole of Europe: the national song festival can be likened to the Olympic games in music.We Latvians are very proud of their Song and Dance Festival.This significant event has been taking place since 1873, and each time it brings together thousands of the best singers and dancers from every region of Latvia. They are all dressed in folk costumes. The celebration always unites the Latvian nation, strengthening its national pride. (it helped our nation to survive the Sovietic occupation,too). The Song and Dance Festival has never lost its significance and still helps to maintain the ancient tradition of singing and dancing in Latvia.
The event is always held in Riga, with the gala concert on the grand open-air stage in Mezaparks. The impressive joint choir unites more than 13 000 participants.
In November 2003 the Song and Dance Festival - a tradition shared by Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia - was proclamed (under the title Song and Dance Celebration) as the UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity which must be preserved and protected..
Latvian Music on eBay
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ICONS OF LATVIAN CULTURE - Amber
GOLD OF THE BALTIC SEA.
Already in distant antiquity, the people living along the shore of the Baltic Sea not only collected amber for trade, but also made practical use of it as a decorative, curative and religious material. The oldest amber animal figurines date from the 8th-7th millennium BC. In the territory of present-day Latvia and Lithuania amber processing began in the 4th millennium BC.The predominant tones of Latvian amber are the yellows, but these may extend to red, brown, blue and green.
The transparency also changes - from clear and transparent to bone-white and opaque, with a great variety of transitional forms.
Just try to find two identical lumps of amber! You never will.
There is no end of colour tone and transparency combinations. These are a consequence of differences in chemical composition, impurities and density.
The largest pieces of amber have been found in Prussia: one weighing 6750 g was found in 1803, and another weighing 9700 g came to light in 1860. Medieval sources mention even larger pieces - 12 kg and 16 kg lumps of amber, but there is no accurate information on these. The Amber Museum in Kaliningrad has a 4280 g amber piece, found in the 1950s.
Follow The Baltic Amber Road
Amber Jewellery - You Are Going To LOVE It
Amber is one of the most popular materials used in Latvia to create wide assortment of beautiful jewellery. Each piece is unique because there are no two identical lumps of amber. Amber is one of the most popular materials used in Latvia to create wide assortment of beautiful jewellery. Each piece is unique because there are no two identical lumps of amber.
You can choose between
rings
brooches
necklaces
bracelets
Wearing them you will be the Queen. You will feel how amber talks to you, tells the story of the Baltic sea, it's very pleasant to touch - energetically positive and warm. I prefer jewellery made from less cut amber lump possible. They are more expensive but believe me you are going to love them.
Amber Rings
Green Amber and Sterling Silver Victorian Large Ring
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Certified Genuine Baltic Amber and Sterling Silver Cameo Ring
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Sterling Silver Honey Amber Adjustable Oval Ring
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Beltic Amber Solitaire Ring Sterling Silver Band
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Adjustable Squared Amber Ring
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Amber Brooches
Adorable Owl Baltic Amber Brooches Sterling Silver Pins 25 MM Long and 6 MM Wide
Amazon Price: $39.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Lovely Cat Baltic Amber Brooch .925 Sterling Silver Pin 38 MM Long and 38 MM Wide
Amazon Price: $35.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Amber Pin / Pendant set in .925 Sterling Silver
Amazon Price: $94.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
Sterling Silver Cognac Amber Brooch
Amazon Price: $25.00 (as of 07/05/2009)
Sterling Silver Cognac Amber Brooch/Pendent
Amazon Price: $48.00 (as of 07/05/2009)
ICONS OF LATVIA CULTURE - Linen
Latvian Linen with Calvin Klein and Giorgio Armani
Linen - fabric or yarn made from the fiber of flax was cultivated for Centuries in Latvia and locally used in bedlinen, towels and dress fabrics.With the fashion for natural living nowadays Latvia linen and fabrics have become highly appreciated inland and abroad. (with the fashion designers Calvin Klein and Giorgio Armani )
Check out a casual yet stylish collection of classic linen clothing for women and wool clothing for women.
ICONS OF LATVIA CULTURE -Nameja Ring
Latvian's Business Card Worldwide
In the 13th century Namejs was one of the most powerful leaders in Latvia and he controlled almost the whole Semigallian region. He was one of the last warriors fighting against invasion of German crusaders at the beginning of the 13th century. During the battles Namejs was forced to retreat to Lithuania. Before leaving, he gave his ring to his son to help recognize him after his return. Germans found out about this and began to search for the boy. They wanted to kidnap his son and force Namejs tribe to accept Christianity. To protect Namejs and his son almost all Semigallian boys and men made similar rings. Since that time this has been the most popular Latvian ring. This ring helps Latvians all over the world to recognize each other.
I also have one, of course! It always gets looots of attention abroad :)
P.S. Once I met Italian guy wearing Nameja Ring very proudly - it was the engagement gift of his Latvian Fiance.
To get your Nameja Ring click HERE
Visit BalticMall for for unique handmade silver and bronze jewelry and much much more.
Riga: Eclectic capital is on Unesco's heritage list
WHY RIGA?
Riga is very compact, key venues are within walking distance in the centre
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10 km from the airport to the city centre
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Key to the Baltic market of 7.5 million people
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Meeting point in the North on the fascinating East-West border
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Direct flights from 60+ destinations
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Linked to Star Alliance, flights from around 850 destinations in more than 150 countries
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Sea port with ferry traffic from Scandinavia and Germany
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Convenient train and bus connections from Russia, Ukraine and Belarus
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No capital in the world has as much Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture as Riga
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Charming old town and city centre on the UNESCO World Heritage list
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Highest percentage of wooden architecture of any European capital
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World-class Opera and ballet
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Birthplace of Mihail Baryshnikov and Mariss Jansons
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Tempting cafes & restaurants
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Hottest night life in Northern Europe
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Diverse gourmet restaurants
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World Christmas Tree City
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Christmas tree decoration tradition started in Riga in 1510
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Double Christmas
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Europe's Christmas shopping destination
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Largest food market in Europe
Cityscape from St. Peter's Church, Riga, Latvia, Art Styles Photographic Poster Print by Jane Sweeney, 32x24
Amazon Price: $79.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Riga, 2nd (Bradt Mini Guide)
Amazon Price: $11.89 (as of 07/05/2009)
Baltic Capitals, 3rd: Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, and Kaliningrad: The Bradt Travel Guide
Amazon Price: $19.75 (as of 07/05/2009)
Landmark Visitors Guide: Riga and Its Beaches (Landmark Visitors Guide Riga) (Landmark Visitors Guide Riga & the Beaches)
Amazon Price: $14.95 (as of 07/05/2009)
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Riga, the Metropolis of Art Nouveau
Riga has "the finest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe"
It's easy to stumble on Riga streets if if you don't look underfoot. Yet some clumsiness is very much in place if you happen to find yourself on Alberta, Elizabetes or Strelnieku streets .You may lose your balance from constantly looking up and getting carried away with excitement."Dad stretches out human profiles one and a half storeys high to adorn the corners of his buildings. Women hold out hands made of drainpipe iron (...) with gold rings on their fingers. It was interesting to watch the rain water stream down their perinea," Sergei Eisenstein said of his father, the architect of Riga's Art Nouveau buildings Mikhail Eisenstein
The legendary filmmaker was born in Riga and grew up in one of the Art Nouveau buildings at 6 Krisjana Valdemara Street, flat No 7. Drop by if you have some free time.
The historic center of Riga with "the finest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe" , was inscribed on the World Heritage list of UNESCO in 1997 in part because of the "quality and the quantity of its Art Nouveau/Jugendstil architecture".
Lonely Planet City Guides
Riga's Art Nouveau on Amazon
Art Nouveau Architecture, 13 Alberta Iela, Riga, Lativa, Baltic States Art Photographic Poster Print by Gary Cook, 18x24
Amazon Price: $39.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Jugenstils Art Nouveau Architecture on Elizabeth Street, Riga, Latvia, Baltic States Art Photographic Poster Print by Christian Kober, 12x16
Amazon Price: $29.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Art Nouveau Decorated on Houses in Pedestrian Area, Riga, Latvia Photographic Poster Print by Keren Su, 16x12
Amazon Price: $29.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Art Nouveau Architecture, 10B Elizabetes Iela, Designed by Mikhail Eisenstein, Riga, Latvia Art Photographic Poster Print by Gary Cook, 18x24
Amazon Price: $39.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
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Riga - The Blackheads House
The origins of The Blackheads House date back to the 14th century, when a building was put up for the needs of city officials and tradesmen. The so-called The Blackheads House Blackheads Society, whose patron was St. Mauritius, took over the building in the 15th century, although the name "Blackheads House" dates back only to 1687. In 1713, the society won full ownership rights to the building. It once contained one of the world's richest collections of silver objects.
The building was completelly destroyed during World War II, but on June 29, 1995, the foundations for the structure that is seen today were laid. A memorial capsule was inserted into the foundations. Work on the restoration was completed in 1999.
The building was completelly destroyed during World War II, but on June 29, 1995, the foundations for the structure that is seen today were laid. A memorial capsule was inserted into the foundations. Work on the restoration was completed in 1999.
The Dome Cathedral
The Dome Cathedral is the largest cathedral in the Baltics. It was founded on St Jacob's Day in 1211 by Latvia's Teutonic conquerors under the bishop Albert von Buxhoeveden, who became its first bishop. In the past centuries the Dome Cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, so presently it is a composite of different architectural styles.The oldest part of the cathedral is the altar build in the manner of Romanesque. Gothic style has left its traces in the architecture of Basilica; baroque is the style of the 18th century spire. Western entrance was built in the second part of the 19th century, and has the features of pseudo-gothic style. The first construction period was finished by 1270. After the last reconstruction that took place in 1776, the tower was raised to the height of 90 meters.
One of the highlights of the cathedral is the famous organ that was made in 1884 by a German company "E.F. Walker & Co". At that time it was the biggest organ in the world.
The organ has 6 718 pipes and is with wooden carvings from 17-18th centuries. This well-known historical monument became a symbol of the Old Town of Riga.
Click here to learn more about precious details of Riga Dome Cathedral.
When in Riga dont miss organ music concerts The Riga Dom Cathedral.
Meantime enjoy the records on Amazon
Organ Music from Riga Doms Cathedral
4th Biggest Pipe Organ in the World
The Organ of the Riga Domi: Bach, Reger, Handel, Caccini, et al.
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Wooden Riga
Amazing phenomenon in the 21st century
Riga might have the highest concentration of wooden architecture of any European capital.Excellent examples of wooden architectural fantasy can be found all over the city.
Up till the end of the 19th century there was a rule in Riga that more or less prohibited the construction of concrete building outside the walls of the old city and the citadel. Consequently the construction of wooden buildings in central Riga continued to flourish as it elsewhere in Europe was replaced by stone, brick, concrete and other non-wooden materials.
The tradition of using wood as the key building material in the city centre continued up to World War I. Even more so wooden city architecture experienced a renaissance in the 1930-ies.Riga and Latvia have historically always had access to high-quality wood. In Riga high quality Russian craftsmanship traditions met with the best of Western architectural building traditions.
In some districts of Riga, for various reasons, complex wooden constructions of that time have still been preserved, and that is an amazing phenomenon in the 21st century. In 1997 the historic center of Riga due to this valued architecture was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Jesus Church (Latvian: Jezusbaznica, in the photo) is the largest wooden building in the Baltic states and can be found right east of Riga Central Market.
Rundale Palace - Summer Residence of the Duke of Courland ERNST JOHANN BIRON
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Rundale Palace
Rundale Palace is one of the most outstanding monuments of Baroque and Rococo art in Latvia. It was built between 1736 and 1740 as a summer residence of Duke Ernst Johann of Courland.The Duchy of Courland-Semigallia, a vassal state of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, was founded in 1561 and it existed until 1795.In 1737 Ernst Johann Biron, a landlord in Courland and favorite of the Russian Empress Anna Ioannovna, became the Duke of Courland-Semigallia.
The Italian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli designed Rundale Palace and supervised construction work. After the death of Empress Anna Ioannovna, the Duke was arrested and sent to exile in Russia. Construction works in the palace were resumed after the Duke's return at the beginning of the reign of Empress Catherine II.
The major part of the interior was made in the period between 1765 and 1768.
The Italian masters from St. Petersburg Francesco Martini and Carlo Zucchi created paintings on the ceilings and walls while sculptor Johann Michael Graff from Berlin made stucco decorations on the background of artificial marble.
In 1972 the Rundale Palace Museum was founded and restoration of the palace began. Restoration is not yet completed and is still going on. The major part of the palace is already done and is one of the most astonishing places outside Riga. I highly recommend visit it.
To learn more visit Rundale Palace
Rundale Palace on Amazon
Baroque Style Rundales Palace Designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, Duke of Courland, Near Bauska Photographic Poster Print by Christian Kober, 24x32
Amazon Price: $49.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
The Rose Room, Rundale Palace, Near Bauska, Latvia, Baltic States Photographic Poster Print by Gary Cook, 24x32
Amazon Price: $49.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Palace Of Rundale
Amazon Price: $0.89 (as of 07/05/2009)
The Gold Hall, Rundale Palace, Near Bauska, Latvia, Baltic States Photographic Poster Print by Gary Cook, 18x24
Amazon Price: $39.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Aglona Basilica - pilgrimage destination of international significance
Aglona Basilica is Latvia's most important pilgrimage site and the leading Roman Catholic shrine in the nation. The church was built in 1699, but it's since been engulfed by an enormous courtyard that was created for Pope John Paul II's visit in 1993.One of the basilica's 10 altars guard a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary , said to have saved Aglona from the plague in 1708.
Aglona Basilica is a pilgrimage destination of international significanceand the most famous sacral site in Latvia, with a magnificent main facade and interior made up of ten stone altars, cross vaults, arches and columns, rich rococo style decorations, paintings and statues.
Every year from 13th-15th August, thousands of pilgrims from different countries gather at Aglona for a religious celebration. A candlelight procession the night before precedes the religious celebration.
My Daughter Marta by Europe's Widest Waterfall Venta's Rapids in Kuldiga (249 m)
Here's my favorite link:
Take this poll on Latvia. There's like one question. I promise it won't hurt.:)
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Your Baby wears Latvian
Haven For the Tourist, Who Loves Nature
Latvian nature explorer stuff
Teva Women's Omnium Sandal
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Timberland Men's White Ledge Boot
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Teva Women's Dozer Sandal
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Newport H2 Full Sandal -Mens
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The Green Heart of Europe
Latvia is among the few countries left in the world where natural ecosystems, largely untouched by man, still thrive in half of its territory. It is a haven for the tourist who seeks to experience a land where nature and tradition have coexisted in harmony from time immemorial.Nowhere else in Europe will you find such a large population of the black stork and the lesser-spotted eagle.
Several of Latvia's forests meet the criteria for a natural forest. Latvia's forests also afford a rich supply of berries, wild strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and loganberries .....mmmm, they are soooooo DELICIOUS! I bet you are not able to get better in the whole world! 100% ORGANIC
Try Blueberry-Ricotta Pancakes
The berry-picking season lasts from late June until late September. It is also the time for gathering mushrooms.
Apart from clearly marked private lands, the wealth of Latvia's forests, berries, mushrooms and hazelnuts is accessible to anyone.
(taken from Latvia Institute)
The Baltic Seacost
Lakes and Rivers
The sea and coastal zone, which stretches 497 kilometres along the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga,is an important part of the Latvian landscape.Sand dunes of up to 36 metres, sandy beaches, rivers and their estuaries, forests, marshes and lakes form a continuous ecosystem that has developed as a result of the interaction between the land and sea.
One can enjoy walking or biking along the sea on the beach for hours.
Latvia has over 12,500 rivers that stretch for 38,000 kilometres, as well as 2,256 lakes that are bigger than 1 ha, with a collective area of 1,000 sq. km.
Eastern Latvia, where many of these lakes are found, is known as "the Land of the Blue Lakes".
The Baltic Sea: Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Poland, Kaliningrad, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia
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The Baltic and North Seas (Seas in History)
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Getting Ready For Latvian Trip
Show your Latvian Pride and Love for Latvia with this unique Made in America from Latvian Parts design.
Latvian Parts Organic Cotton Tee
Latvian Parts Hooded Sweatshirt
Made in America with Latvian parts Women's Plus Si
Latvian Parts Sweatshirt
Latvian Parts Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Latvian Parts Organic Cotton Tee
Latvian Parts Hooded Sweatshirt
Made in America with Latvian parts Women's Plus Si
Latvian Parts Sweatshirt
Latvian Parts Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Gauja National Park
Gauja - the Latvia' longest river
The Gauja , Latvia's longest river, is extremely popular with tourists because none of its 452 kilometres has been changed from its original course.For 85 kilometres the Gauja flows through an old valley that is the heart of the Gauja National Park.
Nowhere else in Latvia will you find so many steep banks, ravines, streams, sandstone and dolomitecliffs, and caves as in the old valley of the Gauja River with its tributaries. Like other national parks in the east of the Baltics, the Gauja National Park includes natural territories relatively untouched by man, as well as historic rural landscapes and important ancient monuments.
The park also offers observation points, rest areas, well-established camping facilities, car parks, cafes, various types of tourist cabins, information centres and the services of knowledgeable guides. There are 100 kilometres of well-maintained walking trails as well as marked routes for water tourism, horse riding and cycling.
European Bison at Ligatne Nature Trail, Gauja National Park, Latvia, Baltic States Art Photographic Poster Print by Gary Cook, 24x18
Amazon Price: $39.99 (as of 07/05/2009)
Typical Latvian Food and Drink Recipes
GREY PEAS WITH BACON
200 g (7oz) grey peas60 g (2.1 oz) smoked or unsmoked streaky bacon
40 g (1.4 oz) onion
salt
Soak peas, the cover with hot water and boil until tender. Dice bacon and onion and sauté. Serve drained peas in individual clay bowls, adding fried bacon mixture to each serving.
Serve with drink of ruguspiens (curdled mild).
Tastes gorgeous! Especially in the winter, when outside temperature is under zero.
Here's my favorite link:
HERBAL TEAS - Scent of Summer in cold Latvian winter
Linden Blossom Tea 3 g (0.105 oz) dried linden blossoms (Tilia cordata Mill)
15 g (0.525 oz) sugar or honey
250 g (8.75 oz) water
Pour cold water over linden bloosoms. Bring to the boil,steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain. Sweeten with sugar or honey if desire.
Vitamin Tea
3 parts dried nettle leaves (Urtica dioica L.)
3 parts dried carrot
3 parts dried rosehips
1 part dried blackcurrants
300 g (10.5 oz) water
Add drogas to cold water, boil for 10 minutes, allow to steep for 2-4 houres in a well sealed containers in a cool place. Strain. Drink 1 glass 2-3 times per day.
Pop Culture Latvia
Latvia with Your Morning's Coffee or Evening's Herbal Tea
Latvian Cuisine
Want some great cooking ideas? Here you are :)
A Taste of Latvia (Hippocrene International Cookbooks)
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From Zaiga's Kitchen: Marvelous Latvian Recipes for Soups, Salads, Main Dishes and Desserts
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The Open-Air Art Museum at Pedvale
If you love nature and modern art you must visit The Open-Air Art Museum at Pedvale. The Museum is a unique place where each visitor has an exciting opportunity to observe the interaction between nature and art.The Museum was opened by sculptor Ojars Arvids Feldbergs in 1991 and is now a State Historical Monument.
Its 100 hectares are covered with tilled fields, blooming meadows, gentle slopes and deep ravines, rolling hills, a winding river, forests with birds and wildlife.
It is an ideal place in which creative professionals, - sculptors, painters, printmakers, installation and performance artists - are free to express themselves.
The permanent collection of the Museum includes more than 150 art works that have been created during symposia, workshops and pleinairs. It also includes an exhibition of the works by Ojars Feldbergs and temporary exhibits by local and foreign artists.
Unique Wooden Toys For Children
If I was a child I would love to play with wooden toys. And You?
They are so unique, so genuine. Enjoying today's passion for organic and healthy lifestyle can't be imagined without them. Our children deserve them.
Visit BaticMall for handmade wooden toys, jewelry, linen clothes and much much more.
All Made in Latvia.
They are so unique, so genuine. Enjoying today's passion for organic and healthy lifestyle can't be imagined without them. Our children deserve them.
Visit BaticMall for handmade wooden toys, jewelry, linen clothes and much much more.
All Made in Latvia.
I love to hear from you
vagabondista wrote...
Very nicely done, informative lens. I'll definitely come back soon as I have trip to Riga on my to-do list :)
Posted April 11, 2009
vagabondista wrote...
Very nicely done, informative lens. I'll definitely come back soon as I have trip to Riga on my to-do list :)
Posted April 11, 2009
Lensmaster
Excellent, nice lens 5*
Posted February 20, 2009
sukkran wrote...
today i knew more about latvia. beautiful it is. good detailed presentation. nice lens.
sukkran
Posted December 19, 2008
Serenity_Prayer_Gifts wrote...
Wonderful Lens! Thank you so much for sharing and for joining my favorites! :-)
Posted November 18, 2008
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