Old Riga
Excursions
- 25 - 35
- 3.5 hours
During a drive around Riga, we will see some of the beautiful architecture of the city. There is a wealth of superb Art Nouveau designs of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The outstanding Freedom Monument was erected in 1935 to symbolise the struggle of the Latvian people for independence, and depicts a bronze woman (fondly nicknamed ‘Milda’) holding three stars in her hands – representing three Latvian regions of Latgale, Kurzeme and Vidzeme.
On a walking tour of Old Riga we will become acquainted with its most famous monuments (outside views). These include – 14th century Riga Castle (now the residence of Latvia’s President), the Three Brothers (three medieval dwelling houses, the oldest of which dates back to the 15th century), St Jacob’s Church with its ‘Bell of Wretched Sinners’, St Peter’s Church, St George’s Church (the oldest building in Riga founded in 1202 in the Romanesque style) and St John’s Church which has part of the old city wall in its courtyard. We may have a little free time in Theatre Square, where the intriguing Cat House can be seen – named after the two black cats perched on its roof.
We also see the heart of Old Riga, Dome Square, where we will visit the Dome Cathedral. Its present appearance, like many of the city’s buildings, is a composite of numerous architectural styles applied through the centuries. We will learn about the Dome Cathedral’s organ, which comprises over 6,000 pipes, and be treated to a short organ recital.
A short drive returns us to our ship.
TOUR NOTES: This is primarily a walking tour and is unsuitable for passengers with limited mobility. There is approximately two and a half-hours of walking around the Old Town, through its narrow, cobbled streets which are impassable by coaches and not suitable for wheelchairs. There are approximately 15 steps to enter the Dome Cathedral. Comfortable shoes are essential. Sights may be viewed in a different order to that described, and photo stops are subject to traffic conditions.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2010 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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