Riga
Latvia’s capital city, Riga, has some very impressive sites and an active and colourful central market. The 14th century House of the Blackheads is in remarkable condition. It was a warehouse and meeting place for merchants, and is well worth visiting. Unfortunately, few of the city’s medieval buildings have survived the ravages of fire and war. The city is also home to an important collection of early 20th century Art Nouveau buildings.
A delight is to wander along the cobbled streets of Riga’s historic centre to admire the well-reformed 18th and 19th century mansions. The streets are in good condition and spotless; and even buildings due to be reformed have a painting on or over the facade of what it will look like once completed.
Like many of the cities in the Baltic Countries, the summer encourages many to make the most of being outside enjoying the cafés and restaurants. Like everywhere else I travelled in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had had a huge effect, and Riga like so many other cities had not yet recovered its tourism and was left largely to local enjoyment.
The Central Market
The Central Market is on the edge of the city centre next to the main bus station, and a short distance from the train station. Inside, the examples of local produce are extensive and imaginative. The flowers, fruit and vegetables give the outside market an explosion of colour.
