Riga - City Sights

House of the Blackheads

Which brotherhood used the building from the mid-15th century?

Brotherhood of Blackheads

What was the original purpose of the building?

Warehouse and banquet hall

Which saint is the patron of the Blackheads, featured in the coat of arms?

Saint Maurice

What unique holiday tradition is the Blackheads credited with starting in Riga?

The first decorated Christmas tree

In what year was the building destroyed during WWII?

1941

Who ordered the demolition of the ruins in 1948?

Soviet government

Between which years was the building reconstructed?

1996-1999

Approximately how many people donated to its reconstruction?

Over 5,000

When was the reconstructed building officially reopened?

9 December 1999

What is the only original part of the medieval building still intact?

The cellar

Daugava

Which capital city does the Daugava River flow through?

Riga

What is the approximate length of the Daugava River?

1020 kilometers

Which body of water does the Daugava River flow into?

Gulf of Riga

Which dam on the Daugava is closest to Riga?

Riga Hydroelectric Power Plant

What is the local name for the Daugava River in Latvia?

Daugava

Which Latvian city is located near the river's border with Belarus?

Daugavpils

What is one major use of the Daugava River today?

Hydroelectric power

Which famous structure crosses the Daugava River in Riga?

Stone Bridge

Which river is sometimes confused with Daugava due to similar length and origin?

Western Dvina

What happens to the Daugava during winter?

It partially freezes

Riga Central Market

How many pavilions does the Riga Central Market have?

Five

Which famous river is the market next to?

Daugava

What architectural style characterizes the market pavilions?

Functionalism

What product category is most sold at the market?

Fresh produce

Where is the fish pavilion located within the market complex?

By the river

What type of food is popular in the meat pavilion?

Sausages

Which pavilion would you visit for dairy products?

Milk pavilion

What historic event did the market survive without major damage?

World War II

Which pavilion features pickled vegetables and fruits?

Pickle pavilion

Is Riga Central Market a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Yes