Travel | Riga 🇱🇻: One of Europe's 100 Hidden Gems

🔆The capital of Latvia, born in the 13th century, was once the Hanseatic League's most vital trade hub and later a key Russian/Soviet port. Though its Old Town isn't fully UNESCO-listed (unlike other Baltic capitals), it's many travelers' favorite.🔆 ✅Must-Sees ⛪ Rīga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms) ✅Dominates the Old Town's main square (founded 1211)—the Baltic's largest place of worship. ✅Tip: Catch the noon organ concert (most Nordic churches feel sparse, but the music shines). 🏠 Three Brothers (Trīs brāļi) ✅Three adjacent houses (15th/17th/18th centuries) showcasing Riga’s architectural evolution. 🏛️ Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums) 💌Rebuilt post-WWII to mirror its medieval glory, including the Blackheads’ House (1334). 🌆 St. Peter’s Church (Pēterbaznīca) 💌Origins in 1209 (rebuilt after 1721 fire). Climb its 123m spire for city views (elevator available). 🐈 Livu Square & Cat House (Kaķu māja) 💌A 1900s Art Nouveau gem. Legend says a snubbed merchant placed back-turned cat statues on the roof to 💌spite the German guild (later adjusted after his guild admission). 🖼️ Latvian National Museum of Art ✔️In the cozy New Town: Latvian/Russian art from the 16th century onward, ✔️plus contemporary works reflecting societal shifts. #Latvia #EuropeTravel #RigaChurches #ArtMuseum