Latvia

Our visit to Latvia was brief, focusing on Riga and a stop at Rundāle Palace shortly after crossing the border from Lithuania. Rundāle Palace, often called the “Versailles of Latvia,” is a stunning Baroque and Rococo masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it a perfect stop on our way to Riga. In the capital, we explored its renowned Art Nouveau architecture, the medieval Old Town, and the vibrant Central Market, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Latvia’s history is shaped by various occupations—German, Swedish, Russian, and Soviet—which have all left their mark on its culture and landscape. Like its Baltic neighbors, Latvia regained independence in 1991. Although we heard about the country’s serene beaches, dense forests, and picturesque towns like Cēsis and Sigulda, we didn’t have time to explore beyond Riga during our three-day stay.
in progress