Swedish Gate — Attraction in Riga

The Swedish Gate (Zviedru vārti) is a historical landmark in Riga, Latvia, located in the Old Town. It was built in 1698 as part of the city’s defensive wall when Latvia was under Swedish rule. This gate is the only one of the eight original city gates that has survived in its original location. It was created to connect the city with the barracks outside the walls.

Legends and History: The Ghost of the Swedish Gate – One of the most famous legends says that a young woman was bricked into the wall as punishment for falling in love with a Swedish soldier. People claim to hear her cries at night. The Executioner’s Mark – A red-painted stone in the archway is said to be where an executioner would place his sword after beheading criminals. Living Quarters – The gate was also used as a living space; a gatekeeper once lived above it, collecting tolls from those entering the city.

Today, the Swedish Gate is a popular tourist attraction, surrounded by medieval streets, charming cafes, and historic buildings. It retains its old-world charm and is a great spot for...

This gate was erected 1698 as a part of the Riga Wall to provide access to barracks outside the city wall. These gates are the only remaining gates from the former eight.

According to one legend, the apartment above the gate belonged to the city executioner, who would place a red rose on the window ledge the morning before an execution, while according to another, a rich merchant cut the gate out of an existing house because he didn’t want to pay taxes each time he brought goods into the city.

It was restored during Soviet times, the gate today leads to Trokšnu iela, the Old City’s narrowest and quaintest street. It is also popular among tourists as a backdrop for photographs.

The gate is located on...

It was a nice experience walking through the old town of Riga in a slightly rainy day and which leads to the Swedish Gate. The Swedish Gate is only gate that remains standing today of eight total in Riga's fortification wall. Located at 11 Torņa street. Constructed in 1698 as a part of the Riga Wall to provide access to barracks outside the city wall. The gate was opened at sunrise and closed at sunset. The apartment above belonged to the city executioner or bende, who would put a red rose on the window ledge on the morning before a...