Riga is mostly known for being the capital of Art Nouveau architecture. In Riga, more than one-third of the buildings in the city centre are Art Nouveau in style - no other city in Europe comes close.
This style dominated in Riga at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century for a short time and it left behind extraordinary colorful architectural examples.
Art Nouveau stresses a complete creative freedom, an expressive flight of fantasy with a tendency to show all utilitarian construction elements as artistic value. Characteristic features of this style are sinuous lines and geometrical ornaments, divided into two main directions in Riga: decorative and romantic nationalistic Art Nouveau.
The most beautiful street of Art Noveau in Riga is Elizabetes. In addition to Elizabetes Street, Alberta and Strelnieku Streets are also feature impressive examples of the style. In total, there are about 800 Art Nouveau buildings in Riga, but finding them all would be quite an ambitious undertaking, so we will try to guide you to the most noteworthy ones.
Come and see Riga-a place to remember!
Optional entry fees during Riga Art Nouveau tour:
To book Riga Art Nouveau tour please contact us info@grandbaltics.com. |
