Swedish Gate
One of the most interesting buildings in Old Riga. It belongs to the former fortification wall surrounding all of the Old City. In one of the wings the Swedish gate, built into the fortification wall in 1698 has situated. Except for the recently restored small exit from St.John Church's Courtyard into Kaleju Street, this is the only Riga gate that has survived in its original form.
Riga Castle
Built for
the Order in 1330, Riga Castle served as the seat of the secular power
for a long time. The place on the banks of the Daugava was chosen for
purpose to oversee all the ship which came into the port, this place was
strategically important, as well. A building of this castle was a square
with a tower in each corner.
Beginning with the second part of the 16th century, when the Order was
reformed, the members of Polish, Swedish and Russian secular power had
their seat there. The building was rebuilt at the end of the 18th century,
the beginning of the 19th century when the third floor was built.
The last reconstruction was made in the 30-ties of this century by architect
E.Laube, the gate, interior and furniture was designed by A.Cirulis.
Now the President of Latvia - Vaira Vike Freiberga - has his residence
in one wing of the castle.
RIGA
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