WorldTravelReynolds

We are spending the next 10 days in and around the Baltic Sea before we move to an even colder climate in Norway. We don’t care much for comes weather, hence why we live in Florida, but this whole trip, the weather has been fabulous except for a few days here and there. Definitely not going to complain!

Our visit today is in Riga, Latvia. Riga is the capital city. We are finding this area is very medieval like especially on their architecture.

This Baltic city was founded in the 13th century and its past is influenced by Livonians, Germans, Swedes, and Russians. Today, it’s more of a cosmopolitan city with a significant Latvian majority.

Our adventure began with a local legend – the tale of Lielais Kristaps, a giant, who legend states, saved a child from drowning in the Daugava River in the middle of the night. The following morning Kristaps woke up to find a large chest of gold coins where the child had been. Upon his death, the money was used to found the city of Riga, the first building was built on the spot where Kristaps cabin had once stood.

Walking around today with no tour, we encountered St. Saviour’s Anglican Church, a striking example of Gothic architecture with its beautiful and tall wooden doors.

From there, we ventured into the heart of the city, Dome Square, a bustling hub surrounded by historical buildings of all kind but we just looked and admired.

Vecriga was a dream come true for any anyone that likes old towns. They actually call it “The old Town”. Cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and a visible sense of old-world charm looking up and down the street. It was here that I stumbled upon the cutest shops selling Swedish mittens. They were so unique, not round like a mitten I’ve seen but kind of a pointed tip over the fingers. But, if your hands are cold, these are for you! I do t think o can use them in Florida!

One of the highlights on this street was undoubtedly the House of the Blackheads. This building, once a home to unmarried merchants, is a testament to Riga’s Hanseatic past. Not to go down a rabbit hole but I found out that Hanseatic means it was a federation of north German towns and cities formed in the 12th century (common era) to facilitate trade and protect mutual interests. Mostly through the Baltic Sea countries and ended in 1669 when more powerful countries dominated the trade business.

We continued our exploration at Town Hall Square, a lively square surrounded by cafes and shops. A much-needed coffee break at the Golden Coffee place was the perfect way to recharge. Our young waitress couldn’t understand where all the Americans came from. We are guessing they don’t provide the a lot of tourists information to prepare. The coffee was delicious!

Next up was St. Peter’s Church with a towering spire was another beautiful church. Leaving the area we stumbled upon an archery lesson taking place in the square. Watching one of our Royal Caribbean staff take on the bow and arrows was surprisingly captivating.

Our day concluded with a stroll through Vecriga, another neighborhood. We couldn’t resist a visit to Riga Castle, the official residence of the Latvian President. While we didn’t meet the President, the castle’s imposing presence was enough to leave a lasting impression, especially with the 2 marching guards.

Riga was truly a miracle town in its architecture. The people here are very nice and speak perfect English. We working mind coming back for a visit again.

Our next stop is Tallinn, Estonia for our second visit.

May God bless you always.

Chuck and Lea Ann