A traveler has many reasons to visit Riga, the most populated Baltic capital. A deep rooted history, multi-cultural structure preserved for many years and exquisite architecture are only few to be listed. Did you notice that there is a general lack of knowledge regarding the Baltic countries? Most of the people cannot even list the countries, let alone know their capitals or point their locations in the map. Travelers who prefer northern destinations to experience a different visit do so via hot deals or affordable flights without even noticing the differences between Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. They believe that they would not miss anything if they do not see any one of them since they believe all Baltic countries are the same. Let us break this misperception and say it is never the same to visit Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius all require separate trips because they offer quite different experiences with their unique architectural, historical, geographical and cultural features. In our current issue we wanted to deep dive in Riga, the most populous of all three and show every aspect of this marvelous city. HISTORY OF EIGHT CENTURIES Riga can be considered as the middle sibling of Tallinn and Vilnius however it is neither a coastal town like Tallinn nor an inland city like Vilnius. The city was built in 1201 in Riga Gulf. It houses the 1020 km long Dauguva River which makes it one of the most important hubs of Eastern Baltic trade routes. In 1282 many Latvian cities joined the Hanseatic League which was a commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and their market towns in Northern Europe. This enabled many German elites to come to Riga for commercial purposes and obtain power as much as the wealth they brought in the city. Latvia was ruled by German merchants for many centuries. After that the city was always ruled by the most powerful which included Polish, Swedish and Russians. Following the independence of Latvia in 1918, Riga was first invaded by Nazis and then by the Soviet Union. Effects of all of these ruling changes can be felt with the architecture and the way of living in the city. Riga continues to preserve its multicultural heritage with its demographic structure. The city that had half of its population made up by Germans prior to second World War now has the highest Russian population ratio among the Baltic capitals. RIGA IN UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST The impact of the wealthy Germans can be seen through the Art Nouveau architecture inherited by the city. Do not forget that the architecture you come across in Riga is very beautiful and can only be seen in cities such as Vienna, St. Petersburg or Barcelona. While you visit inlands of the city, you will see wooden buildings left by the Soviet culture. City’s historical center “Vecr’ga” is a living proof of Riga being a medieval city. Cobbled, narrow streets and attached buildings with 60 degree roofs will likely impress you very much. This area is closed to traffic and maintains its liveliness with its museums and coffee shops for the day time and colorful bars, pubs and restaurants during the evening. A TRIP TO RIGA MAY SURPRISE YOU Housing one third of the population of Latvia, Riga offers everything the modern life requires. City habitants do not stay home much, they live the city extensively by gathering together in squares, eating and socializing in cafes or skating in the streets. This dynamism can be observed in every part of the city. While you wander in Riga streets you can always come across with diverse bazaars, spontaneous events, festivals, concerts or open air movie screenings. You can live the city by letting things slide and adapt the culture faster, however we gathered some useful information you can make use of during your trip to Riga. WHAT TO EAT? Rozengrals Restoran: An assertive restaurant with its foods and medieval ambience. Light: A restaurant standing out for its fusion kitchen. Fellini: Riga is a cosmopolitan city with diverse food options. Fellini is an absolute Italian classic. WHAT TO BUY? Amber jewelries are very popular in the Baltic region, prices depend on size, clarity and color. These jewelries can be found in street vendors, bazaar or shops. Riga is also famous for its "Black Balsam", a drink prepared with various spices and herbs.