Kuldiga - Latvia

 I haven't received any cards from Latvia since 2021!! 

A few weeks ago I saw Olga offering cards from Kuldiga and I contacted her. I didn't know much about the town but I knew it was a UNESCO site still missing in my collection. She was at the post office when she read my message and immediately sent the card with a special postmark. 

 

The old town of Kuldiga and the red-brick bridge across the Venta River were included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in September 2023.

Kuldiga is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Latvia. It was founded in 1242 and developed from a small medieval hamlet into an important administrative centre of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia between the 16th and 18th centuries. The town structure of Kuldīga has largely retained the street layout of that period, and includes traditional log architecture as well as foreign-influenced styles that illustrate the rich exchange between local and travelling craftspeople from around the Baltic Sea. The architectural influences and craftsmanship traditions introduced during the period of the Duchy endured well into the 19th century. - in: https://whc.unesco.org 

The historic buildings of the town and its nature create a unique, harmonious ensemble incomparable to anything found in Latvia or elsewhere in Europe.  

One of the widest brick bridges in Europe has always attracted visitors to Kuldiga. The 164-metre-long bridge was built in 1874 over the Venta River. It is the longest road bridge of this kind in Europe. The bridge, with seven spans of brick arches and boulder abutments, was not only the largest and most ornate on the territory of Latvia but also one of the most modern of its time in the whole of Europe. It was built according to Russian Tsarist road standards: 11 metres wide, allowing two carriages to pass each other on it. The bridge was renovated in 2008. - in: https://thesanetravel.com

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Most of my Latvian cards are from Riga, it is nice to get cards from other places of the country too, especially when they're this great. 

Aglona is famous in Latvia and beyond for its Basilica of the Assumption — the most important Catholic church in the country. 

LV-374086, sent by Dzeimss (?).

The church and monastery were founded by the Dominican fathers in 1700. The original wooden church and monastery were razed in the 1760s and construction for a new church was begun in 1768 and completed by 1800 when it was consecrated.

 It attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims every year on the day of the Assumption of Mary (15 August) as well as on Pentecost. The historic icon of the Aglona Mother of God is considered miraculous and has long been an object of veneration. Its dates to the 17th century and its authorship is unknown.

In 1980 the Church celebrated its 200th anniversary and was officially given the status of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II. In 1986 it was the site of celebration of the 800th anniversary of Christianity in Latvia. A major renovation of the basilica and expansion of the church grounds was begun in 1992 in preparation for the pope's visit. The shrine was visited by Pope John Paul II in September 1993 and over 300,000 pilgrims assembled at that time. Pope Francis visited in September 2018. - in: wikipedia

Riga - Latvia

How beautiful, magical and wonderful are these breathtaking snowy winter views of Riga??! I just love them. I'll definitely will visit Riga again but in winter. Riga and Tallinn must be so pretty in winter covered in snow.

LV-353425, sent by Kate.

Riga was a major centre of the Hanseatic League, deriving its prosperity in the 13th–15th centuries from the trade with central and eastern Europe. The urban fabric of its medieval centre reflects this prosperity, though most of the earliest buildings were destroyed by fire or war. Riga became an important economic centre in the 19th century, when the suburbs surrounding the medieval town were laid out, first with imposing wooden buildings in neoclassical style and then in Jugendstil . It is generally recognized that Riga has the finest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe. - in: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/852

To enjoy this view you can take a lift to the top of the St. Peter's Church tower. The church’s position in the centre of Old Town gives you a close-up view of some of the beautiful architecture and colourful facades from above, as well as a view across the river to other parts of the city. - in: https://londoncitycalling.com/2017/03/14/the-4-best-vantage-points-in-riga/

Art Nouveau - Riga

When I visited Riga I already knew that the city was known for its many exemples of Art Nouveau architecture, however I didn't have time to visit the downtown quarter known as the "quiet centre" - just a 10-minute stroll from Old Town, where many Art Nouveau buildings are located. 

Art Nouveau in Riga makes up 40% of downtown Riga, making Latvia's capital the city with the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture anywhere in the world.

Damien went on a mega road all the way from Limoges, France and one of hist stops was the beautiful Latvian capital city.

Art Nouveau, the distinct style in art of end-19th century and early-20th, was the "father" of modern architecture. Riga is a well-known Art Nouveau mecca.

Photo: Jänis Knäkis

As the population of Riga swelled, so did the demand for new apartment houses. Thus, over 100 high-rise stone and brick buildings went up, creating the city's distinct look. Eclecticism, the predominant style since end-19th century, was gone by 1904, making way for Nouveau. 

Alberta Street (where the building on the card is located) is regarded as Riga’s Art Nouveau gem, since it is full of splendid historical Art Nouveau-style buildings from one end to the other. The area was erected in a short period of time – from 1901 to 1908, each of the buildings standing alone as an inimitable 20th century architectural achievement. Eight buildings are now recognised as architectural monuments of national significance. - in: https://www.liveriga.com/en/2492-alberta-street

Riga Dome Cathedral - Latvia

I've been to Riga in September, 2015. It was a short visit though but I really liked the city's historical center. I know I'll visit the city again.

LV-239410, sent by Zigrida.

The foundation stone of Riga Dome Cathedral was laid on July 25, 1211. The last large-scale restoration took place in the late 19th century when the cathedral acquired its present appearance. Today, Riga Dome Cathedral holds services and provide for rich cultural life — various concerts of popular artists take place here.

Riga Dome Cathedral has been one of the major venues for concerts in Riga for hundreds of years. Also today, official services and concerts feature various musical performances.

Photo: Indrikis Stürmanis 

Riga Dome Cathedral was the central cathedral in the Baltics until Livonia fell to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in 1561. It has Romanesque, early Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau features and is considered the largest Medieval church in Latvia and the Baltic States.

On July 25, 1211 during a ceremony, Bishop Albert laid the foundation stone. According to art historians, the building was initially envisaged as a basilica but later the design was changed and a hall church was built instead.

Photo: Indrikis Stürmanis

LV-160715, sent by Velga.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the cathedral was enlarged by building the western cross-nave and side chapels and elevating the side walls of the central nave thus making the church into a basilica. Riga Dome Cathedral tower was the highest spire in Riga at that time. The cathedral kept its appearance up to 1547, when on a Sunday before Pentecost, a great fire broke out in the inner city and the Gothic spire of the cathedral burned down. A new tower with a pyramidal spire and two galleries were built by 1595. The Cathedral cockerel dating back to that time can still be seen in the inner courtyard of the cathedral.

LV- 82579, sent by Svetlana.

From 1881 to 1914, Riga Cathedral Building Section of Riga Society of Researchers of History and Ancient Times carried out major reconstruction and renovation for its present-day appearance. - in: http://www.liveriga.com/en/1158-riga-dome-cathedral

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Ludza is a town located in eastern Latvia. It is the oldest town in the country. 

These are the ruins of the town's medieval castle. 

Fotografas: A. Kuliesis

LV-191478, sent by Ineta.

In 1399 between Ludza Small and Large Lake, German crusaders built a mighty castle for protection of the eastern borders of Livonian Order – it was a three-storied masonry building with 6 towers, 3 gates and 2 castle-fronts. The master of Livonia Order Vannemar von Bruggenoje built the castle of grey stones and red bricks and decorated it with black glazed bricks. Tsar of Russia Ivan the Terrible, King of Poland Stephen Bathory, King of Sweden Gustav Adolf tried to conquer the castle. Since 1775, only ruins of the castle have remained. It is a popular place of rest for residents and visitors of the town; it has the most beautiful view on the town. - in: http://www.ludza.lv/en/tourism/sightseeing/ludza-town/

Latvian National Costumes

In exactly 4 months I'll be flying to Lithuania. Once there I'll go on a day trip to Latvia's capital city, Riga. According to the Baltic Travel Group (2012 information), in Riga tourists can take pictures with girls dressed in national costumes. Ok, if I see them, I'll take a picture with them or at least, take a picture of them.

Thanks Katy for the card. 

Foto: Ieva Dãbolina

The girls will be dressed in bright Liv, Nīca, Lielvarde and Northern Vidzeme national costumes. 

Latvia is rich with Song and Dance Festival traditions, however, those visiting Riga have little opportunities to really see traditional Latvian culture. For the development of the local tourism industry, it is important to bring in this Latvian culture to the city environment, where persons can enjoy this culture without going out to look for it. - in: http://www.baltic.travel/company/press-centre/news/date/2012/08/02/tourists-can-take-pictures-with-girls-dressed-in-national-costume

Three Brothers - Riga

A latvian card from my favorites sent by Svetlana. The card shows these three builgings, known as "Three Brothers" in Riga. 

The Three Brothers is a building complex consisting of three houses, situated in Riga, Latvia. The houses together form the oldest complex of dwelling houses in Riga. The houses are situated at the addresses 17, 19 and 21 Maza Pils Street, and each represents various periods of development of dwelling house construction.

The building in 17 Maza Pils Street is the oldest, dating from the late 15th century. The exterior of the building is characterised by crow-stepped gables, Gothic decorations and a few early Renaissance details. Originally the building consisted internally of one large room and an attic in use as a storage. The house was restored in 1955-57 by architect P. Saulitis.

The neighbouring house, 19 Maza Pils Street, has an exterior dating from 1646, with a stone portal added in 1746. The style of the building shows influences from Dutch Mannerism.

The last house of the three, located in 21 Maza Pils Street, is a narrow Baroque building which gained its present look probably during the late 1600s.

The Three Borthers complex today houses the State Inspection for Heritage Protection and the Latvian Museum of Architecture. - in: wikipedia

Celina's cards

Just a few days ago, Celina went on a nice trip to visit 5 different countries, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. I've to admit i'm a but jelous... i've only been to Poland yet and would love to visit the other countries too.

She sent me cards fromLlithuania, Latvia and Poland.

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, and its largest city. It is located in the southeast of the country. It is the second biggest city of the Baltic states, after Riga.

Vilnius is known for its Old Town of beautiful architecture, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Its Jewish influence until the 20th century has led to it being described as the “Jerusalem of Lita" and Napoleon named it "the Jerusalem of the North" as he was passing through in 1812.

The Cathedral Square in Vilnius is the main square of the Vilnius Old Town, right in front of the neo-classical Vilnius Cathedral. It is a key location in city's public life, situated as it is at the crossing of the city's main streets and reflecting the city's diversity. Regularly held at this site are fairs and gatherings of townspeople, military parades, religious and official public events, attractions and large concerts, New Year’s salutes and exhibitions. It is not merely the most lively and important location in the city, but is also one of the most significant and widely known symbols of Lithuania. - in: wikipedia

Felistella

Riga is the capital and largest city of Latvia. Riga is the largest city of the Baltic states and home to more than one third of Latvia's population.

Riga was founded in 1201 and is a former Hanseatic League member. Riga's historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its Art Nouveau/Jugendstil architecture and 19th century wooden architecture. - in: wikipedia

Photos by Christian Parma

Several views from Warsaw in Poland.

Freta Street; Castle Square; Piwna Street; Old Town Market Square; Castle Square; Old Town Market Square; Barbican; Old Town Mermaid and Royal Castle.

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When i 1st saw this card, i thought this was an image of a sanctuary but i was wrong. This crowd is attending the Latvian Song and Dance Festival.

The Latvian Song Festival, along with its sisters festivals in the Baltics, are truly unique awe-inspiring events - after all what other events can boast 20,000 people in national dress all singing in pride of their country at the same time! Perhaps that's why they were recently bestowed the title of "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity", by UNESCO. - in: http://www.riga-life.com/riga/latvian-song-festival

LV-76231, sent by Renars.

The Latvian Song and Dance Festival is an important event in Latvian culture and social life. The All-Latvian Song and Dance Festival has been held since 1873, normally every five years. During the festivals exhibitions of photography, art and folk craft, orchestra concerts, and a festive parade also take place. Events and competitions leading up to the event occur throughout the period between festivals.

Approximately 30,000 performers altogether participate in the event. Although usually folksongs and classical choir songs are sung, with emphasis on a cappella singing, recently modern popular songs have been incorporated into the repertoire.

The 24th Festival was held in July 2008. The main events were held in the Grand Stage of Mežaparks and in the Daugava Stadium in Riga. The next edition will take place in 2013. - in: wikipedia

Renars participated in the festival in 2003.

LV-52641

This is my last post before Christmas. This isn't my favorite time of the year but i hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, enjoy every moment with peace and happiness.

Back to the official cards. This one is from Latvia, my 2nd from there. It shows the flag and coat of arms of Latvia and the Freedom Monument in Riga.

LV-52641, sent by Oksana.

The Freedom Monument is a memorial located in Riga, honoring soldiers killed during the Latvian War of Independence (1918–1920). It is considered an important symbol of the freedom, independence, and sovereignty of Latvia. Unveiled in 1935, the 42-metre (138 ft) high monument of granite, travertine, and copper often serves as the focal point of public gatherings and official ceremonies in Riga.

The sculptures and bas-reliefs of the monument, arranged in thirteen groups, depict Latvian culture and history. The core of the monument is composed of tetragonal shapes on top of each other, decreasing in size towards the top, completed by a 19-metre (62 ft) high travertine column bearing the copper figure of Liberty lifting three gilded stars. The concept for the monument first emerged in the early 1920s when the Latvian Prime Minister, Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics, ordered rules to be drawn up for a contest for designs of a "memorial column". After several contests the monument was finally built at the beginning of the 1930s according to the scheme "Shine like a star!" submitted by Latvian sculptor Kārlis Zāle. Construction works were financed by private donations.

Following Soviet occupation of Latvia in 1940 Latvia was annexed by the Soviet Union and the Freedom Monument was considered for demolition, but no such move was carried out. Soviet sculptor Vera Mukhina (who was born in Riga) is sometimes credited for rescuing the monument, because she considered it to be of the high artistic value. Soviet propaganda attempted to alter the symbolic meaning of the monument to better fit with Communist ideology, but it remained a symbol of national independence to the general public. Indeed, on June 14, 1987 about 5,000 people gathered at the monument to commemorate the victims of the Soviet regime and to lay flowers. This rally renewed the national independence movement, which culminated three years later in the re-establishment of Latvian sovereignty after the fall of the Soviet regime. - in: wikipedia

New Travelling RR - Group 113 * Unesco

Last monday i've received an envelope from Estonia with 10 unesco cards but I already had all the sites. However i picked 2 beautiful cards. This one is from Latvia.

 

From Latvia, a card from it's capital city, Riga with the Blackheads House, the town Hall, Three Brothers, the Dome Cathedral, Latvian Union of Architects, Swedish Gate and Klostera Street.

LV-16618

I didn't received cards today (how is that possible?) but i still have a lot of cards to post here.

This card here is an official from Latvia, my 1st official from there and i love it. I really like the buildings, so beautiful.

LV-16618, sent by Ineta.

"House of the Blackheads is a building situated in the old town of Riga, Latvia. The original building was erected during the first third of the 14th century for the Brotherhood of the Blackheads Guild, a guild for unmarried German merchants in Riga. Major works were done in the years 1580 and 1886, adding most of the ornamentations.

The structure was bombed to a ruin by the Germans June 28, 1941 and the remains demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999." - in: wikipedia

Riga - Latvia

St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Riga. Sent by Monna.

Riga - Latvia

A beautiful card from, Riga - Latvia's capital city, sent by Gunta.