Useful information about Riga, Latvia

Riga is the capital of Latvia and Riga is important seaport and major industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic Sea region. Riga is the largest city of the Baltic states, one of the largest cities in Northern Europe.

Latvia is a democratic, parliamentary republic. Since Latvia became independent in 1991, Latvia has successfully integrated into European and world structures.

Riga was founded in 1201 by German crusaders in the second half of the 12th century, by the junction of the Daugava and Ridzene lakes. Riga soon became a trade centre between Europe and the Baltic region and Russia.

Riga is one of the biggest centres of Art Nouveau so Riga has the finest collection of Jugendstil buildings in Europe.

Riga is situated on a sandy plain near the river Daugava. Riga administrative divisions consists of six administrative entities: Central, Kurzeme and Northern Districts and the Latgale, Vidzeme and Zemgale Suburbs.

Latvia is a small, open economy with exports contributing significantly to its GDP. In 2011 Latvian GDP grew by 5.5% and Latvia was among the fastest growing economies in the European Union.

Churches in Riga, Latvia. Detailed information about churches and cathedrals in the Latvian capital.

Facts about Riga - the biggest city in the Baltic States

Museums in Riga. Information about museum, it`s location,opening times and entrance fee.