A story about Latvia. School encyclopedia. The largest lakes

Latvia (Republic of Latvia) is a state in Eastern Europe. It borders with Lithuania, Estonia, Belarus, and Russia. The capital is the city of Riga. The western part is washed by the Baltic Sea. Latvia became a separate state on November 18, 1918, when it separated from Russia. In 1940 it became part of the USSR. Latvia regained its independence in August 1991, when the Soviet Union collapsed. As of January 1, 2012, there were 2,217,053 people living in Latvia.

Latvian republic is a member of the European Union, is part of NATO, participates in the Schengen Agreement, which provides it with a fairly large flow of tourists. As a member of the European Union, Latvia has significantly expanded its ties with European countries such as Sweden, Germany and the UK. Russia is a long-standing and traditional partner of Latvia in the field of trade.

Thanks to its geographical location, Latvia acts as a kind of bridge, connecting business between East and West. The transport infrastructure and economy of Latvia are well developed, there are well-established air connections with many countries around the world. What is important is that the Republic of Latvia has access to the Baltic Sea. One of the most important advantages of the country is the high development of the banking sector. Russians are especially attracted to Latvia by the fact that the Russian language is widely spoken on its territory. There are Russian schools, kindergartens and even universities. The majority of Latvian citizens not only understand Russian, but can also speak it.

Enough wide range of possibilities The Latvian state provides business, both in tax and other senses. If a company is registered in the Republic of Latvia, then it can supply goods to EU countries and provide services to European enterprises without additional duties and bureaucratic delays. In addition, Latvian legislation allows companies to open bank accounts in any other state, which distinguishes it from a number of other states.

Due to the crisis, the Latvian government has over the past years significantly simplified the registration procedure companies (LLC or JSC), representatives of foreign merchants, as well as branches of foreign companies. In addition, business taxation was simplified. First of all, this affected non-residents of the country. In 2010, very reasonable and liberal amendments to the migration legislation were adopted, which allow almost all foreigners, having benefited the Latvian economy to some extent, to obtain a residence permit in the Republic of Latvia. So almost any foreigner can become a European resident with all the benefits of such a position. Registering a business in Latvia is not only a step that facilitates obtaining a residence permit in Latvia, but also a good solution for the development of the company itself.

Latvia is a beautiful Baltic country, one of the top ten countries in the world in terms of environmental safety. This is a country of competent, neat people. The capital of Latvia, Riga is the largest city in the Baltic countries. Old Riga is included in the UNESCO list of cultural attractions.

In old Riga everything breathes history. You look around, and it seems that a knight on a horse or an influential person in her own carriage has passed in the distance. Ancient buildings, narrow streets, medieval motifs...

For centuries, the Dome Cathedral, the construction of which began in 1211, the Church of St. Peter, the Riga Castle, the House of the Blackheads, and the Latvian National Opera have been located in Riga. All these and other attractions of Riga are enjoyed by thousands of tourists.

There are also buildings in Riga built in the original art nouveau style. Hoary antiquity harmoniously combines with relatively new architectural solutions.

Once upon a time, in the old days, the Latvian economy was represented only by agriculture, forestry and fishing. In small towns scattered throughout the country, people were engaged in trade and crafts. The Baltic Sea provided connections with other countries of the world.

Today Latvia is an economically developed country, it is part of the common world market. Hydropower, woodworking, pharmaceuticals, transport, trade, agriculture, cosmetics production are the main sectors of the Latvian economy.

Latvia is not poor in mineral resources. This is mainly amber, limestone, peat, dolomite.

Famous people of Latvia are chemists Wilhelm Ostwald, Janis Robins, ethnographer Georg August Schweinfurt, inventor Konstantin Pocs, artist Gustav Klutsis, chess conqueror Mikhail Tal, brilliant dancer of the world ballet stage, choreographer, actor, Mikhail Baryshnikov.

- Kuldyga waterfall - the widest waterfall in Europe,

- the main stone of Latvia is amber,

- the legendary bird of Latvia - the white wagtail,

- one of the main symbols of Latvia - the Latvian flag - the oldest in the world,

- the two most famous cats of Latvia are two sculptures on the roof of a beautiful house, the owner of which was once denied membership in the Great Guild of Riga,

- the organ, located in the Dome Cathedral, was created in 1884,

— Turaida Castle (once called Treidensky) was founded in 1214. The castle is located on the territory of the Gauja National Park,

— The Jurmala Museum, which houses things related to fishing, is conveniently located in the open air,

— a lantern with a lit candle will be given to you when visiting Wenden Castle.

Latvia- a country of forests. It ranks 4th in the European Union in terms of forested area.

In past Latvia (Latvian republic) was part of the USSR as a union republic. WITH August 21, 1991. it is an independent state.
Latvia borders Estonia, Russia, Belarus and Lithuania. It is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga.

State symbols of Latvia

Flag– a rectangular panel of three horizontal stripes of different sizes: burgundy, white and burgundy in a ratio of 2:1:2. The ratio of the width of the flag to its length is 1:2.
According to legend, the red-white-red flag of Latvia is one of the oldest in the world. Its history dates back to the time of the battle between the Knights of the Sword and the Letts near Wenden in XIII century According to legend, the basis of the flag was the white cloth in which the mortally wounded leader of the Latvian tribe was carried from the battlefield. The warriors raised the blood-soaked cloth at both ends as a banner, and it led them to victory.

Coat of arms- a shield crossed and half-cut into azure, silver and scarlet. In the azure field there is a stylized golden rising sun with diverging rays, in silver there is a scarlet lion looking to the left, in the red field there is a silver griffin looking to the right, holding a blade in its right paw. Above the shield are three arched golden five-pointed stars. The shield is supported by a rearing scarlet lion and a silver griffin, standing on a base of green branches entwined with a ribbon.
There are three types of coat of arms: large, small extended and small coat of arms.
Great coat of arms used by the President, Parliament (Seimas), Prime Minister, Cabinet of Ministers, ministries, Supreme Court, General Prosecutor's Office, Bank of Latvia, as well as diplomatic and consular missions of Latvia.

Small supplemented coat of arms used by committees and commissions of parliament and the cabinet of ministers, as well as institutions directly subordinate to these authorities.

Small coat of arms used by other government agencies, municipal local governments, and educational institutions on official documents.

Brief description of modern Latvia

Capital- Riga.
Largest cities– Riga, Daugavpils, Liepaja, Jelgava, Jurmala.
Form of government- parliamentary republic.
Head of State– President, elected for 4 years.
Head of the government(Cabinet of Ministers) – Prime Minister.
Territory– 64,589 km².
Population– 2,201,196 people. Latvians make up 76.97% of the population, Russians - 8.83%, Belarusians - 1.4%, Poles - 2.6%, Lithuanians - 1.2%, Jews - 4.9%, Germans - 3.3%.
Official religion- No. But the predominant number of Latvians are Lutherans, Russian-speaking ones are Orthodox, and Poles are Catholics. Society is tolerant of various religious movements.
Economy– the share of the service sector in Latvia’s GDP is 70.6%, industry – 24.7%, agriculture – 4.7%.
Latvia's main export products: electrical machinery and equipment, machinery and mechanisms, iron and non-alloy steel, lumber, pharmaceutical products, iron and steel products, primary products of iron and steel, round timber, knitwear and textiles, non-ferrous metals and their products.
Russia remains Latvia's traditional trading partner.
Official language– Latvian. Among national minorities, dissatisfaction is caused by the lack of official status for the Russian language, the native language of 37.5% of the population.
Currency– Latvian lat.
Education– The education system is divided into basic, secondary and higher. The state provides secondary education. Compulsory education is 9 years, then elective schooling can be continued up to 12 years.
1st grade starts at 6 or 7 years old. Basic education lasts 9 years. In secondary education, there are two types of programs: general secondary (its task is to prepare for further study, it is designed for 3 years) and professional secondary educational program (focused on obtaining professional qualifications). The education system of Latvia has implemented a system of centralized examinations (Unified State Examination, Unified State Examination).
Climate– moderate, natural disasters are rare.
Ecology– generally favorable. In 2012, Latvia ranked second in the world (after Switzerland) in the environmental performance index.

Latvian culture

Literature

In fact, original Latvian literature began in the 19th century, when Latvians began to receive higher education, as a result of which a full-fledged national literature was created. Famous poets of this time - Janis Rainis(Jan Pliekshans) and Aspasia(Elsa Rosenberg).

In the USSR, much attention was paid to translations of national literature into Russian. In this regard, the names of Latvian writers became known Latsis, Upita, Mane, Sudrabkaln, Kempe, Ziedonisa, Grigulis, Skuinya, Vatsietis and etc.

Music

The Latvian national music school began to form in the second half of the 19th century. One of its first representatives were composers Karlis Baumanis(1835-1905), author of the text and music of the Latvian anthem, and Janis Cimze(1814-1881), collected and processed folk music. Among the musical genres, choral singing developed most actively, in 1873 passed the first song festival, which has become traditional and is held every five years.
The main opera venue of the Latvian SSR was the State Opera and Ballet Theater. Classical and modern operas have been staged on its stage, including the latest works by Latvian composers.

Contemporary musicians have gained worldwide fame: composers Janis Ivanov, Paul Dambis, Maja Einfelde, Artur Grinups, Imants Kalnins, Romualds Kalsons, Raymond Pauls, Romuald Kalsons, Imants Zemzaris, conductors Arvid Jansons and his son Maris, singers Karlis Zarins, Ingus Petersons, Samson Izyumov, Alexander Antonenko, singers Germaine Heine-Wagner, Inessa Galante, pianists Arturs Ozoliņš, Ilze Graubiņa, Vestards Šimkus, violinists Baiba Skride, Ieva Graubina-Bravo, Valdis Zarins and Gidon Kremer, piano duet Nora Novick and Raffi Kharajanian, cellist Eleonora Testelets, organists Talivaldis Deksnis, Iveta Apkalne.

– an outstanding violinist and conductor, winner of many international violin competitions. Gidon Kremer's repertoire includes works by classics (Antonio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach) and modern composers.

Sport

The most popular sport is hockey, then basketball, football, volleyball, tennis, cycling, bobsleigh and luge.

Natural attractions of Latvia

Waterfall on the Venta River

Europe's widest waterfall, located in Kuldiga. Its width depends on the amount of water (on average 100-110 m), but in high water it can reach 279 m. The height is from 1.6 to 2.2 m. The rapids of the waterfall form an intricate zigzag line.

Gutman's Cave

The largest cave in Latvia and the entire Baltic region. Located on the right bank of the Gauja River in the Gauja National Park near the city of Sigulda.
The walls of the cave are made of red sandstone, formed in the Devonian period (about 410 million years ago). A stream flows out of the cave and flows into the Gauja River. The depth of the cave is 18.8 m, width 12 m, height 10 m.

White Dune

It is one of the most beautiful coastal dunes in Latvia with a beautiful view of the Vidzeme coast. There is a special observation deck where you can relax. From the White Dune along the sea coast a pedestrian Sunset Path 3.6 km long has been created. The white dune offers views of the mouth of the Inchupe River.

Bulduri Dendrological Park

Bulduri– part of the city of Jurmala, 20 km from Riga. This place was named after the owner of the estate, Johann Buldrink, who lived in the 15th century. On the territory of Bulduri there is a Dendrological Park. The park contains a rich collection of flowers and trees.
At the beginning of the 21st century. A shopping center and a water park were built near the bridge over the Lielupe.

Waterfall on Alekshupite

Waterfall in Kuldiga, at the very source of Alekshupite, which flows from the Venta River. Height 4.15 m, width 8 m. Is second waterfall in height in Latvia. There is a bridge over the waterfall, as well as a mill dam. It is believed that it was built in XIII century. along with the lock. In the 17th century it was reinforced so that the wheel rotated, which powered the first paper mill in Kurzeme.

Gauja (national park)

Biggest national park in Latvia. Covers an area of ​​917.45 km² in the Gauja River valley, a few kilometers from the city of Valmiera. Founded in 1979, it is the oldest national park in Latvia.

The park is especially famous for the Devonian sandstone cliffs along the banks of the Gauja River. In some places in the Sigulda region, the height of these cliffs reaches 90 meters. The south-eastern part of the park is a popular recreation area for residents of the city of Riga, and the north-western part is largely a nature conservation area.

The park territory includes several historical buildings: Turaida Castle, Lielstraupe (castle and church), Ungurmuiza Manor. 47% of the park's territory is covered with forests, mainly spruce and pine. There are many lakes in the park, the largest of which is Ungurs.

Kemeri (national park)

Founded in 1997 Includes the Great Kemeri Marsh, Kanieru Lake, the Slocene River Valley, the sulfur springs of the Zalja (Green) swamp, ancient continental dunes, a sandy beach with coastal dunes and Lake Valguma. It occupies an area of ​​38,165 hectares, of which 1,954 hectares are in the Gulf of Riga.

Kolka (Cape)

A strategically important cape located at the extreme northern tip of the Kurzeme Peninsula in the historical and geographical region of Courland. It has a strategic location at the entrance to the Gulf of Riga of the Baltic Sea. Also known for Kolka lighthouse (since 1875). Translated from Livonian it means “acute angle” (the shape of a cape).

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Latvia

Old Town (Riga)

The oldest part of the city on the right bank of the Daugava River. Old Riga is famous for its cathedrals and historical buildings. A significant part of Riga's attractions is concentrated in Old Riga, where the streets are still paved with cobblestones and where the medieval flavor of the city is felt. In the 80s of the XX century. The city authorities, with rare exceptions, banned traffic in the territory of Old Riga.

Sights of Old Riga

Riga Cathedral, its symbol and one of the main attractions. It is the largest medieval temple in the Baltic countries. The name of the cathedral comes from the Latin "Domus Dei" ("House of God") and "D.O.M." (short for Deo Optimo Maximo, "To the Most Good God"). Currently, it is the main church building of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia. Was founded in 1211
Numerous reconstructions have led to the interweaving of different architectural styles. The northern portal of the church, the former main entrance, has been preserved from the Gothic period. In addition to Gothic and Baroque, there are fragments in the Renaissance and Romanesque styles. Due to floods, the streets of Riga have been covered with gravel over the centuries, resulting in the floor level in the temple being significantly lower than the street level, resulting in the feeling that the cathedral is located in a low-lying area.
The cathedral's attractions also include the memorial stone of the minor guilds (19th century), Baroque carvings (c. 1641) and the tomb of the first bishop of Livonia, Meinhard von Segeberg.

Lutheran Church of St. Petra

The oldest religious building in the city, first mentioned in 1209 g. The church is famous for its original, recognizable spire (the total height of the church tower is 123.5 m, of which 64.5 m is the spire). It was built as a people's church: merchants, artisans and other residents of the city took an active part in raising funds for construction. One of the oldest schools in the city operated at the church. Created in gothic style.

Cathedral of St. James

Brick Monument gothic, the fourth largest church in Riga, the main Catholic Church of Latvia, the cathedral of the Riga Archdiocese. For several centuries and until the middle of the 20th century. was the cathedral Lutheran church.

An example of the transition period from Romanesque to Gothic. First mentioned in 1225 g. The windows of Riga's St. James Church are covered stained glass, which were created in the 19th century.

House with black cats

A building in the central part of Riga's Old Town, built in 1909 architect Friedrich Scheffel in the style of late rational modernism. It is one of the most “legendary” buildings in the Old Town.
There is an unverified legend that the wealthy homeowner Blumer (Plume), dissatisfied with the fact that he was not allowed to become a member of the Riga Great Guild, the representative body of the Riga merchants, undertook an act of psychological retribution. He ordered sculptures of black cats with arched backs and placed them on the pointed turrets of his apartment building, located on the opposite side of Meistaru Street. These cats had their tails turned towards the windows of the office of the elder of the Great Guild. A lawsuit was launched against Blumer, but legal measures could not be used to get Blumer to turn the cats around. It took a long time to turn the cats around to the “correct” angle.

Big and Small Guilds

The Great Guild was formed in 1354, in the same year the Small Guild appeared, this is not a coincidence: until that time, the residents of Riga had a single guild of townspeople, called the Guild of the Holy Cross and Trinity, and in 1354 g. It split into two - the guild of craftsmen (Small) and the guild of merchants (Big).

Unlike the Small Guild, which united craft people under its roof, the Big Guild accepted only the Riga merchants into its ranks.

Powder Tower

The only surviving tower, an element of the city fortification system of Riga, which is a branch of the Military Museum of Latvia. First mentioned in a chronicle source in 1330 in connection with the conquest of the city by the troops of the Livonian Order. Especially for Master Eberhardt von Monheim, a cannon shot made a hole in the fortress wall, through which he pompously entered the newly conquered Riga. It was decided to improve the fortification system of the city; a tower was erected, which was named after the features of the surrounding terrain - Sandy.

Riga Castle

Currently it is the residence of the President of Latvia. One of the most historically and culturally significant buildings in the Latvian capital.
The history of the castle dates back to 1330, when its construction was started by the Livonian knights who were forced out of the then city limits.

House of the Blackheads

Architectural monument XIV century The building was rebuilt several times. During the Second World War it was destroyed. Restored today.
At the end XIII century. there was a brotherhood of St. George, which accepted young unmarried foreign merchants. Initially his patron was St. George is the patron saint of knights and warriors, and later St. Mauritius (its symbol - a black head - was in the coat of arms of the brotherhood) and the name of the Blackheads was assigned to them. The corporation was completely secular.

Three brothers

Architectural complex. A typical example of the architecture of medieval Riga. In the Three Brothers complex, each of the buildings shows different periods of development of residential building construction in medieval Latvia. Today, the State Inspectorate for the Protection of Cultural Monuments, the Union of Architects of Latvia, the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the editorial office of the magazine Latvijas Architektūra are located here.
Most old brother(White brother) built around 1490 g.,middle-brother- V 1646 g., the youngest(Green brother) - at the end XVII century

Swedish Gate

The Swedish gate was cut into the Riga fortress wall in 1689 Legend has it that the building where the gate is now located belonged to a wealthy Riga merchant. In order not to constantly pay taxes when importing goods into the city, he cut through this passage. This is the only city gate in Riga that has been preserved in its original form.

Latvian National Opera

The building was built in the city center in 1863. as the 1st city (German) theater, but 20 years later there was a major fire, as a result of which the building was destroyed in 1885-1887. rebuilt.
IN 1919. The Latvian National Opera, which previously had no permanent location, moves into the theater building. The first performance took place on January 21, 1919, it was Richard Wagner's production of The Flying Dutchman.

Riga Central Market

One of the oldest and largest markets in Europe and America, distinguished by its original design. The designs of the pavilions show features of functional modernism, the neoclassical style that was widespread in Riga before the war - this pompous manor style traditionally served wealthy Riga merchants and entrepreneurs. Some details of the facades are designed in Art Deco style. Under the pavilions there are underground storage facilities and refrigeration units.

Riga Aviation Museum

The largest aviation technology museum in Latvia and one of the largest in Europe. The largest collection of Soviet aircraft outside the CIS is presented. Its history dates back to the formation of the Young Pilots Club named after. F. Zandera in 1965. It was officially opened in 1997 on the initiative of V.P. Talp, a former military engineer for naval aviation of the Black Sea Fleet. The territory of the Riga International Airport was allocated to house the museum.

Other sights of Latvia

Freedom Monument

Installed in 1935. in memory of the fallen fighters for the independence of Latvia. Sculptor Karlis Zale, architect E. E. Stalberg. It is a vertical monument 42 m high. Made of gray and red granite, travertine, concrete and copper. At the base there are 13 sculptures and bas-reliefs depicting pages of the country’s history, from the legendary hero Lachplesis to the Latvian Red Riflemen.
At the top of the main pylon, 19 m high, stands a 9-meter figure of “Freedom” - a young woman holding three stars on her outstretched arms, symbolizing the three provinces of Latvia: Kurzeme (Courland), Vidzeme (Livonia) and Latgale (Latgale).
On the facade of the monument there is an inscription carved: “Tēvzemei ​​un Brīvībai” (“For the Fatherland and Freedom”).

Rundāle Palace

Country residence of the Dukes of Courland 12 km northwest of Bauska in the village of Pilsrundale. Built in Baroque style according to the design F. B. Rastrelli For E. I. Birona. Laid into 1740 g., finished in 1768
The palace ensemble consists of the palace building itself with stables and other outbuildings, adjoined to the south by a French garden of 10 hectares, closed on all sides by a canal, behind which is a hunting park (34 hectares).

Currently, the vorets and the adjacent garden are a museum. It is also used to receive high-ranking foreign guests by the President of Latvia.

Riga Motor Museum

Automotive Museum in Riga, exhibitions include more than 230 cars, motorcycles and mopeds end XIX to end XX century. The motor museum displays sports and military cars, Latvian-made cars, limousines and cars from the 1930s (including Molotov's car, Brezhnev's limousine).

Art Museum (Riga)

One of the oldest museums in Riga. The museum's collection consists of over 52,000 exhibits, divided into two extensive collections: Latvian and foreign art. The Latvian art collection is the largest in the world and reflects the history of the development of painting, drawing and sculpture in Latvia since the mid-18th century. until now.

Latvian Ethnographic Museum

One of the largest open-air museums in Europe. Was created in 1924, open to visitors in 1932. Located in a picturesque location on the shores of Lake Jugla, away from city buildings, almost on the border of Riga.
On an area of ​​84 hectares there is 118 residential, commercial, public wooden buildings built in XVII - XX centuries. in different historical regions of Latvia.

Jurmala

Jurmala- the largest resort city in Latvia and the Baltic countries. The Dzintari Concert Hall annually hosts the KVN music festival and the international competition of young performers “New Wave,” as well as the Jurmalina festival, Full House performances and other concerts and festivals.

Daugavpils

The second largest and most important city in the country after the capital Riga. First mentioned in 1275 g. The historical center of Daugavpils (development of quarters of the city center in the 19th - early 20th centuries) is a monument of urban planning of national importance, included in the list of protected objects and monuments in 1998.

Historical Center

Daugavpils Fortress (Dinaburg)

A fortification structure located on both banks of the Western Dvina (Daugava) River. Monument of urban planning and architecture of national significance.
Construction started in 1810. by order of the emperor Alexandra I on the eve of the war with Napoleon I in order to strengthen the western border of the Russian Empire. The work was supervised by a military engineer general E. F. Hekel. During the war 1812 the fortress was damaged. IN 1830. The Dinaburg fortress was placed under martial law as a result of the Polish uprising. 2 June 1833 In the presence of Emperor Nicholas I and the highest clergy of Russia, the consecration of the fortress took place.
IN 1863. In connection with the Polish rebellion, the fortress was again placed under martial law. Construction work in the fortress continued until 1878, although the main volume was completed in 1864
There are interesting sculptures in the city, for example, turtle sculpture, bat monument, cat sculpture, etc.

Liepaja

A city in southwestern Latvia on the Baltic Sea coast. The third largest city in Latvia after Riga and Daugavpils and an important ice-free port.
Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Anna.

It houses a unique organ, the third largest in Latvia.
Orthodox Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas. The first stone was laid by Tsar Nicholas II himself.

Liepaja is a center of culture and sports; various sporting events take place here: the International Chess Tournament, the World Simulation Rocket Championship, the basketball Championship “Līvu alus”, one of the stages of the international tennis tournament “Davis Cup”, the annual July rally “Kurzeme”, the Liepaja Games Vikings, which are organized by the Latvian Wealthy Association, international orienteering competitions (KĀPA) and “sports weekends”, during which every Liepaja resident can take part in beach volleyball, football, streetball, minigolf, floorball, bicycle racing and relay races.

Liepaja Sports Center

Jelgava (original name Mitava)

Founded in 1573 g. Located on the Lielupe River.

Mitava (Jelgava) Palace

The largest baroque palace in the Baltics, built in XVIII century according to the project B. Rastrelli as the ceremonial city residence of the Dukes of Courland and Semigallia in their capital Mitava (now Jelgava).

Cathedral of Simeon and Anna

The Cathedral of the Latvian Orthodox Church in the city of Jelgava, consecrated in honor of St. Simeon the God-Receiver and St. Anna the Prophetess. It has a chapel in the name of Saint Alexis, the man of God. IN 1711 Peter I, when concluding the marriage of his niece Anna Ioannovna with the Duke of Courland, Friedrich Wilhelm, demanded from him a promise to build an Orthodox church in the capital city of Mitau. This was accomplished.

A multifunctional sports complex was opened in September 2010 Zemgale Olympic Center. The Jelgava football team holds its home matches at its stadium, and the basketball and volleyball teams play their games in the sports hall.

Fairy tale house "Ondine"

Located next to the station Dubulti. In Western mythology, Undine is the name given to a mermaid.
The main goal of “Ondine” is to preserve and revive fairy tales, ethical values, folk traditions, and crafts. Creative people love to visit the House of Fairy Tales: artists, poets, musicians, craftsmen, everyone tries to leave something as a keepsake in the form of paintings, carvings, sculptures, crafts, songs.

History of Latvia

Until the 12th century. The territory of Latvia was inhabited by pagan tribes of the Balts, Finno-Ugrians, Slavs, and Livs. The Livs paid tribute to the princes of Polotsk, others - to the kings of Sweden. From the second half XII century In the territory of eastern Latvia, Russian missionaries preached the Christian faith in the Orthodox version, but local residents were reluctant to move away from pagan beliefs. During the era of the Crusades, Christians in Western Europe set out to convert northern pagans to Christianity.
IN 1201 g. Riga was founded. Riga, due to its geographical location, has always been an important trading region (part of the " Paths from the Varangians to the Greeks").

In the picture: I. Aivazovsky “The Varangian Saga - the path from the Varangians to the Greeks”
Riga residents actively participated in the Reformation, in 1517 g. a preacher of ideas arrived in Riga Luther Andreas Knopcken. Most of the burghers willingly accepted the new teaching. In 1530, Nikolaus Ramm translated passages from the Bible into Latvian for the first time.

IN 1558 invaded the territory of Livonia Ivan groznyj. The pretext is failure to pay tribute for 300 years. IN 1583 Russia lost the war. The territory of Livonia was divided between the Polish-Lithuanian Grand Duchy, Sweden (north of present-day Estonia) and Denmark (it got the island of Ezel, now Saaremaa); the lands of the Order north of the Western Dvina became the Duchy of Zadvina, ruled by Poland, and the lands to the south became a vassal state of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth - the Duchy of Courland.

John Vasilyevich the Great, Emperor of Russia, Prince of Moscow

XVII century is the time of formation of the Latvian nation as a result of the consolidation of individual peoples. IN 1638 Georg Manselius compiled the first Latvian dictionary “Lettus”, in 1649“Historia Lettica” (Latvian History) by Paulus Einhorn was published.
XVIII century IN 1721 As a result of the Northern War, Livonia cedes to the Russian Empire. Riga became part of Russia in fact already in 1710
During the first partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1772 The city of Latgale goes to Russia. During the third partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1795 g. Kurzeme and Zemgale belong to the Russian Empire.
XIX century War with Napoleon 1812 partially affected the territory of Latvia.
IN 1817-1819. Serfdom was abolished in the Courland and Livonia provinces.
IN 1861 The first Riga-Daugavpils railway on the territory of modern Latvia came into operation. IN 1862. Riga Polytechnic Institute was opened. From the middle of the 19th century. The growth of national self-awareness of Latvians is intensifying. At the end of the 19th century. rapid development of industry begins.

The Russian-Baltic Carriage Works, the Phoenix Carriage Works, and the Provodnik Rubber Products Plant began operating, producing Russia’s first cars and bicycles. The leading industries are mechanical engineering and metalworking.
XX century An active struggle for the independence of Latvia begins. IN 1915 Germany occupies Kurzeme, industry is evacuated from Latvian cities, great destruction occurs in Dvinsk (now Daugavpils), and the creation of Latvian rifle units. They were later used to suppress anti-Bolshevik uprisings in a number of cities (Yaroslavl, Murom, Rybinsk, Kaluga, Saratov, Novgorod, etc.)

IN 1918-1920. There is a civil war in Latvia. Main participants in the conflict: national bourgeois government K. Ulmanisa, supported by the Entente, and Soviet power, supported by Soviet Russia. Pro-German formations took part in the war, from among the soldiers of the German army, the Baltic Germans, the Russian White Guards supporting them and the White Guards who joined the Entente.
December 22 1918. Lenin signed the “Decree of the Council of People's Commissars on the recognition of the independence of the Soviet Republic of Latvia.”
May 15 1934. is happening coup d'etat, absolute power in the country is concentrated in the hands of K. Ulmanis.
August 23 1939 The Third Reich and the Soviet Union sign the "Non-Aggression Pact" (also known as the "Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact"). Attached to the treaty was a secret additional protocol on the division of the countries of Eastern Europe into spheres of German and Soviet interests ( Latvia fell into the sphere of influence of the USSR).
June 15 1940 There was an attack by USSR military units on Latvian border guards in Maslenki. The next day, the Soviet Commissioner for Foreign Affairs V. Molotov read out to the Latvian Ambassador F. Kocins an ultimatum from the USSR government, which demanded the resignation of the Latvian government and the introduction of an unlimited contingent of Soviet armed forces into Latvia. The government of K. Ulmanis decided to accept the ultimatum and resign.

The Seimas proclaims Latvia a Soviet Republic (Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic). In the first wave of repressions (until June 22, 1941), about 17,000 people(including about 4,000 citizens under the age of 16), up to 400 people were shot. During World War II, by mid-July, the entire territory of Latvia was occupied by the Wehrmacht. IN 1941-1943 battalions of “auxiliary security police”, regular police battalions, and volunteer battalions are formed; these formations participate in police and punitive operations in the territory of Latvia, Belarus and Russia. From september 1941 Latvian police battalions took an active part in sabotage and punitive attacks on the territory of the Pskov region, Belarus, destroying the civilian population and partisans. During World War II, out of 80 thousand Jews in Latvia, only 162 survived. For 1941-1944. only the “Latvian Auxiliary Security Police” or, as it was also called “Arais’ team,” exterminated about 50 thousand Jews.
October 13, 1944 Red Army units enter Riga.
Before 1991. The Latvian SSR is part of the USSR. Industry is developing in the republic (enterprises VEF, Radiotekhnika, RAF, Laima). During this period, many party leaders of Soviet Latvia were promoted to leadership positions in Moscow, among them member Pelshe A. Ya., head of the KGB of Latvia Pugo B. K. and others.
August 21, 1991. Latvia becomes an independent state.

Latvia became a member of the European Union in 2004 and signed the Lisbon Treaty in 2007.

Latvia

Latvia is a small country near the Baltic Sea with ancient history and traditions. There are tourist sites here that will interest anyone. If you want to enjoy nature, there is the calm Gulf of Riga, the open Baltic Sea, natural parks, fast rivers, and lakes, on the banks of which extensive forests have been preserved. For tourists interested in history, medieval castles and ancient Latvian culture are of interest. If you want to combine entertainment with gaining new knowledge, you can visit Old Riga, where you will find not only wonderful architectural monuments, but also a wide variety of clubs and restaurants. Latvia has beautiful churches - both ancient and modern. And, of course, when traveling to Latvia, do not forget to take an interest in the events that are planned for this time! You will be able to enjoy both traditional Latvian holidays and a wide variety of cultural and entertainment programs that continue all year round.

So, a little about Latvia... This small Baltic country is located in the northeastern part of Europe on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Its territory is only 64,589 sq. km. The capital of the state is the city of Riga (the number of inhabitants is slightly more than 700,000 people). Riga is located at the confluence of the Daugava River and the Gulf of Riga. The largest cities: Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, Rezekne, Ventspils.

Latvians have inhabited this land for two thousand years. The Latvian people were formed by the merger of the ancient Baltic tribes of Latgalians, Semigallians, Selovians and Curonians with the Baltic Finnish peoples - Estonians and Livonians. The official language of the Republic of Latvia is Latvian, but Russian, English and German are also widely spoken. Perhaps no other nation in Europe cares as much about its own identity as the Latvians. They have many national symbols. In addition to the traditional ones - flag, coat of arms and anthem - Latvia has a national flower (daisy), two national trees (linden and oak) and a national bird (white wagtail).

The time zone coincides with Kyiv.

Currency of Latvia: the national currency is the lat, in which there are 100 centimes. Lat is the only legal tender in Latvia. The exchange of lats for other currencies and back is free and widespread - currency can be exchanged in banks or exchange offices ("Valutas Maina") in hotels, post offices and train stations. The amount of currency exchange is not limited and is carried out without presenting any documents. Latvia is one of those countries in the world where cash is used quite widely, i.e. about 30% of cash turnover. In Latvian hotels, restaurants, cafes and large stores you can pay with international cards EUROCARD, MASTERCARD, VISA, JCB, DINER'S CLUB, AMERICAN EXPRESS, EUROCHEQUE, electronic cash cards issued by Latvian banks, and also get cash around the clock in banks and ATMs in Latvia For now, tourists will be able to pay with travel checks only in large cities and major resorts.

The diverse cultural heritage of Latvia includes both archaeological evidence of history and buildings from various historical periods - sacred, military and other historical monuments, as well as the work of many artists, musicians, writers and scientists. Also in Latvia, large areas have preserved species and biotopes that are rare or even almost extinct in other European countries. Coastal wetlands, rainforests, large and intact wetlands, and natural and semi-natural grasslands are considered natural assets of national and international importance.

Riga, the capital of the country, is a modern, European city with a rich history of more than eight centuries. Riga was one of the most significant cities of the Hanseatic Way; its history is inextricably linked with Sweden, Germany, and Russia. A city that has absorbed the traditions and culture of great countries, a city that has always retained its identity. Perhaps this is the only city in Europe where temples of five different religious denominations are located. The Dome Cathedral and the huge Church of St. Peter are Lutheran churches, the Cathedral of St. James is the seat of the cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, the beautiful building of the Riga Synagogue is the only Jewish temple that survived the atrocities of the Nazis in the 2nd World War. These and other religious buildings are open to tourists, and the tower of St. Peter's Church has an observation deck from where you can see the entire city from a bird's eye view. You should definitely attend an organ concert in the Dome Cathedral. Concerts are held in the summer 2 times a week - on Wednesdays and Fridays, in the winter only on Fridays. Concerts start at 19:00. Ticket prices range from 2 to 5 lats. You will learn about this and much more by visiting the official website of the city http://www.rigatourism.lv/RU/Channels/Tip/default.htm Guidebooks usually name 6 attractions that are a must-see for tourists in Riga. The first and, of course, the main thing is the old town with the famous Dome Cathedral, the most beautiful churches of St. Peter, St. Jacob, St. John, built in the 13th century. The central part of the city is included in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List. The second “highlight” of Riga is entire streets and blocks with unique buildings in the Art Nouveau style or, as it is called here, “Jugendstil”. The most visited by connoisseurs of this architectural style is Albert Street. Other interesting sights of Riga are the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, the Freedom Monument, the house of the Blackheads, a fascinating sight for passers-by, and a car museum with rare cars of Stalin and Brezhnev on display. To save on transport and museums in Riga, it is worth purchasing a Riga Card at tourist information centers or at your hotel. It gives you the right to free travel on public transport and visit about 20 museums in the city for 1, 2 or 3 days. The cost of a one-day card for adults is 8 lats, for children 4 lats.

Jurmala is the largest and most famous seaside resort in Latvia, just 20 km from Riga. It is believed that Latvia has gained particular fame as a tourist destination thanks to this Baltic resort, popular since Soviet times. A thirty-kilometer strip of golden sandy beaches on the Gulf of Riga, pine forests, picturesque banks of the Lielupe River and at the same time a temperate climate, fresh sea-filled air and mineral springs attract numerous vacationers here. One of the most significant events in Jurmala is the international music competition "New Wave", which takes place here every year. Opening ceremonies, competitive performances and gala concerts of the New Wave traditionally take place in the Dzintari Concert Hall, the main venue for all summer events. Almost all European and world stars of the last century performed on its open stage. Jurmala is proud to have had the honor of discovering new stars.

Among the most significant architectural monuments located near Riga are Turaida Castle in the vicinity of Sigulda, Rundāle Palace (Biron's Palace), as well as the Catholic basilica in Aglona.

For all holidaymakers in Latvia in winter, we recommend a full-day trip to Sigulda. This city is considered one of the most picturesque corners of Latvia - “Latvian Switzerland”. Sigulda, the heart of the Gauja National Park, was founded near Turaida Castle (built in 1207). Only ruins and protective walls with towers have survived to this day. You can walk around the castle and admire the views from the cliff. The city is located not so far from Riga - 53 km. Less than an hour - and you are in Sigulda - the main ski resort of Latvia, a place of active, extreme recreation for people who love winter sports. There are specially equipped and illuminated ski, slalom and toboggan runs here. Thrill-seekers can fly in a hot air balloon and bungee over the abyss. The most famous bobsleigh track is also located here, where various international competitions are held. Only the bravest can ride it, and only with an instructor. And the memories from the exciting descent will remain with you for the rest of your life!

To enjoy the beauty of Latvia, you first need to get here. The options are many and suit a variety of travel styles and travel budgets. If a plane is the most suitable option for you, you can use the services of Riga Airport. Air routes connect Riga with the largest cities of Ukraine, allowing you to travel quickly and conveniently. There are regular flights from Odessa to Riga by Air Baltic and Aerosvit, but only in the summer. Riga Airport is located relatively close to the city center, so you will quickly find yourself in the very heart of the city. You can also travel by bus or private car, visiting neighboring countries along the way. This path, of course, will take more time, but you will have the opportunity to get an idea not only of the largest cities of Latvia and cultural sites, but also of the nature and landscapes of the country. If you want to enjoy a sea voyage, you can get to Latvia by ship. Latvia has several port cities that not only provide maritime connections, but also offer interesting tourist attractions.

Latvian cuisine is one of those that is called simple and satisfying. Unlike residents of Western Europe, soups occupy a significant place on the table of Latvians: milk, bread, sweet (for example, blueberry with dumplings). National dishes: “Aukšta Zupa” (cold beetroot soup), onion klopps (a huge fresh steak with a special onion sauce), gray peas with bacon, whipped cream and bread soup. As a coastal people, Latvians widely use fish to prepare national dishes: cod casserole, herring casserole with boiled potatoes (“silju pudiņš”), fried herring with onion sauce, charcoal-fried herring, etc. The most important drink for Latvians, as well as guests of Latvia, is beer. The revived beer production "ALDARIS" produces a lot of varieties of light and dark beer, in taste and richness not inferior to the best world varieties. Of course, Latvia also has beer from famous European brands. It costs the same as the local one. Only few people choose it. For lovers of stronger drinks, we can first of all recommend the products of the world-famous plant "LATVIJAS BALZAMS". You can't find vodkas and liqueurs of this quality in other countries! We especially recommend trying caraway vodka ("Kimenu Degvins") and tomato vodka. And “Riga Black Balsam” has been the hallmark of Latvia for many years. Having a snack or lunch in Riga, for example, is not difficult - there are many cozy restaurants with very reasonable prices. The most popular and famous restaurant chain in the city is Lido. The most beloved three-story complex Lido Krasta by Riga residents and tourists is located in the city center on the banks of the Daugava. Decorated in folk style, the complex has its own mill, ponds, brewery, and a small children's amusement park. A tasty and satisfying lunch with freshly brewed beer will cost only 5-7 lats here.

What to bring from Latvia: products made of wood, ceramics and, of course, amber, the famous Riga balsam, chocolates from the famous confectionery factory Laima. Good knitwear, especially cotton. Many quality products from Scandinavian countries. But remember - the export of amber and artistic values ​​is limited.

VAT and tax-free. A VAT refund (18%) is possible subject to purchase in one store within one day for an amount of at least 59 lats (including VAT) and receipt of a “Tax Free” check from the seller. In this case, the purchased goods cannot be used on the territory of the country (the factory packaging must be preserved) until the customs stamp on the receipt is received. The goods specified in the check must be exported from Latvia no later than three months from the date of registration. The check is presented to a special cash desk "Cash Refund" on the territory of Riga International Airport, seaport or at land customs points. The refund amount is usually 12-15% of the purchase price. When leaving by train, the check is only stamped, and the VAT refund is carried out by mail (by transfer to a specified account or by sending a bank check).

Since ancient times, Latvia has been a kind of crossroads between East and West, North and South. At different times, Latvia was conquered by German knights, Poles, Swedes, and Russians. However, despite this, Latvians managed to form as a nation and preserve their original culture. Nowadays, numerous tourists come to Latvia to admire medieval Riga, see the ancient crusader fortresses, and also relax at the beautiful Latvian balneological and beach resorts of the Baltic Sea.

Geography of Latvia

Latvia is located in the Baltics, in Northern Europe. In the south, Latvia borders with Lithuania, in the southeast with Belarus, in the east with Russia, and in the north with Estonia. In the west, the Baltic Sea separates Latvia from Sweden. The total area of ​​this country is 64,589 square meters. km., and the total length of the border is 1,150 km.

The landscape in Latvia is flat with small hills in the east and lowlands. The highest point in the country is Gaizinkalns, whose height reaches 312 meters.

Capital

The capital of Latvia is Riga, which is now home to more than 710 thousand people. Riga was founded in 1201 by Bishop Albert von Buxhoeveden of Livonia.

Official language of Latvia

The official language in Latvia is Latvian, which belongs to the Baltic group of languages.

Religion

The majority of the population of Latvia belongs to the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church, the Roman Catholic Church and the Greek Catholic Church.

State structure of Latvia

According to the constitution, Latvia is a parliamentary republic, the head of which is the President, elected by the country's Parliament.

The unicameral Parliament of Latvia (Seimas) consists of 100 deputies who are elected for a 4-year term by direct popular elections. The President appoints the Prime Minister. Executive power belongs to the President, Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers, and legislative power belongs to the Sejm.

Climate and weather

The climate in Latvia is temperate, humid, with elements of a continental climate, which is noticeably influenced by the proximity of the Baltic Sea. The average air temperature in winter is -6C, and in summer - +19C. The hottest month in Latvia is July, when the air temperature can rise to +35C.

Average air temperature in Riga:

• January – -5C
• February - -5C
• March - -1C
• April - +5C
• May - +10C
• June - +14C
• July - +17C
• August - +16C
• September - +12C
• October - +7C
• November – +1C
• December - -2C

Sea in Latvia

In the west, Latvia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea (Gulf of Finland). The length of the Latvian coast of the Baltic Sea is 531 km. The beaches are sandy. The temperature of the Baltic Sea near the Latvian coast in summer reaches +17C.

There are two ice-free ports in Latvia - Ventspils and Liepaja. On the coast of the Gulf of Riga there are picturesque fishing villages.

Rivers and lakes of Latvia

About 12 thousand rivers flow through the territory of Latvia, the longest of them are the Daugava and Gauja. In addition, this Baltic country has about 3 thousand lakes, some of which are quite small.

Many tourists come to Latvia to fish in local lakes and rivers (and, of course, in the coastal waters of the Baltic Sea). Salmon fishing in Latvia is allowed only in two rivers – the Venta and the Salaca.

History of Latvia

The ancestors of modern Latvians settled on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea around the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC. Historians believe that the ancestors of modern Latvians were the Baltic tribes of the Selovians, Curonians, as well as the Slavs and representatives of the Finno-Ugric tribes.

Only in the 12th century were Latvians included in pan-European history (but not of their own free will). The Livonian Order, encouraged by the Vatican, is trying to convert pagan Latvians into Christians. At the beginning of the 13th century, most of the territory of modern Latvia was under the rule of German knights and bishops. Thus, Lithuania, together with southern Estonia, formed the state of German knights - Livonia. It was the German knights who founded Riga in 1201.

From 1560 to 1815, Latvia was part of Sweden, and Riga was the capital of Swedish Livonia. It was at this time that the tribes of the Curonians, Semigallians, Selovians, Livs and northern Latgalians were assimilated, and thus the Latvian nation was formed. At the end of the 18th century, most of the territory of Latvia annexed to the Russian Empire.

In 1817, slavery was abolished in Courland. In Livonia, slavery was abolished in 1819.

The independence of Latvia was proclaimed in November 1918, however, in August 1940, this Baltic republic was incorporated into the USSR.

On May 4, 1990, the Supreme Council of the Latvian SSR adopted the Declaration on the restoration of independence of the Republic of Latvia. Thus the Republic of Latvia was formed. The USSR recognized Latvia's independence only in September 1991.

In 2004, Latvia was admitted to the NATO military bloc, and in the same year it became a member of the European Union.

Latvian culture

Latvia boasts rich folklore traditions that have survived to this day. Latvia is a Christian country, but ancient pagan holidays have survived to this day, albeit in a transformed form, and Latvians still celebrate them.

The largest ancient folk holiday in Latvia is Ligo (January's Day), celebrated during the summer solstice on June 23-24.

In addition, among the most popular holidays among Latvians are Maslenitsa (Meteņi), Easter and Christmas.

In recent years, at the beginning of each summer, Go Blonde (“Blonde Parade”) is regularly held in Riga. It can be considered that the “Parade of Blondes” has already become a traditional folk festival in Latvia.

Many tourists come to Latvia every year to attend the New Wave music festival, which is held in Jurmala.

Kitchen

Latvian cuisine has been formed under the influence of Russian, German and Swedish culinary traditions. Typical products in Latvia are meat, fish, potatoes, cabbage, beets, peas, dairy products.

As for alcoholic drinks in Latvia, beer, vodka, as well as various liqueurs and balms are popular in this country. Tourists often bring with them the famous “Riga Balsam” from Latvia.

Sights of Latvia

Curious travelers will be interested in visiting Latvia, because this country has preserved many historical and architectural monuments. In our opinion, the top ten best Latvian attractions include the following:

Cities and resorts

The largest Latvian cities are Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, and, of course, Riga.

There are several good beach resorts in Latvia on the Baltic Sea coast. The beach season in Latvia usually begins in mid-May and lasts until mid-September. The most popular Latvian beach resorts are Ventspils, Daugavpils, Liepaja, Riga, Cesis and Jurmala.

Every year, more than 10 beaches in Latvia receive the Blue Flag environmental certificate (for example, Vakarbulli beach in Riga and Majori and Jaunkemer beaches in Jurmala). This means that Latvian beach resorts meet global environmental standards.