St. John's Church — Attraction in Riga

Riga boasts a wealth of historical churches, and St. John's Church initially sparked my interest with its 13th-century Gothic architecture. However, my anticipation quickly turned to disappointment upon arrival. Instead of open doors inviting reflection and exploration, I was met with a €3 entrance fee enforced by a ticketing booth blocking the entrance. This felt like a stark contrast to the spirit of open access one expects from a place of worship. Adding to my frustration, several Google Maps reviews mention similar experiences, with some visitors reporting attempts by staff to deny the existence of an entrance fee altogether. While the need for churches to maintain their structures is undeniable, such practices cast a shadow on the experience for potential visitors. Ultimately, the decision of whether to pay the fee rests with you. However, Riga offers a wealth of beautiful and welcoming churches to explore, making St. John's a location that some travelers might choose to skip.

Thankfully, Riga offers numerous alternatives and these other churches prioritize inclusivity and spiritual connection, making them a much more fulfilling experience for travelers seeking to connect with Riga's rich...

Sad that churches now charge for “entrance fee” 3euros. Shouldn’t it be open to the public? I’ve seen so many beautiful and free entrance churches. Please don’t support greedy “churches” like these

Edit: please don’t deny it. The entrance to your church door is blocked and there are tickets prices by the door before you can enter. This is not a form of “donation”. Aren’t religious people supposed to be honest and true? Why do you need to lie? I might have put the wrong photo BUT I’m NEVER MISTAKEN about your church charging entrance fees and not just donations. Perhaps you’ve been requiring payments AT CERTAIN TIMES OF DAY but the fact remains that you are charging. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries and many churches, we always donated if it is free. But this is the first time a “church person” would blatantly not tell the truth about your entrance fees just to save face. What can you say about other commenters mentioning your...

St. John’s Church is a charming and peaceful spot in the heart of Riga’s Old Town. Its simple yet elegant Gothic architecture stands out among the colorful buildings, and the quiet atmosphere inside offers a welcome break from the busy streets.

The interior is warm and inviting, with beautiful stained-glass windows and a sense of history that goes back centuries. It’s a place where you can truly feel the city’s medieval spirit.

Located just steps away from other major attractions, it’s easy to include in your walking tour of the Old Town. Whether you stop for a quick visit or to spend a few quiet moments inside, it’s well worth seeing.

⭐ Tip: Take a moment to admire the church from the small square in front—it’s one of the prettiest...