Art nouveau architecture
Riga is the ideal location for lovers of this theatrical style of architecture and design. Riga, the capital of Latvia, has the largest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings anywhere in the world, with almost one-third of the city's structures being examples of the style. The majority of Riga's Art Nouveau structures were constructed between 1904 and 1914, during a time of strong economic expansion.
Similar to other cities, Riga was inspired by the Art Nouveau movement in order to exhibit a stronger sense of individuality, local pride, and a more rational style of architecture than that which had predominated in the 19th century. Eclectic, Perpendicular, National Romantic, and Neo-Classical are the four further stylistic divisions of Riga's Art Nouveau architecture.
When the art nouveau movement swept over Europe at the start of the 20th century, the city's architects went entirely overboard, and even after the devastation of World War II, over 750 art nouveau structures still stand. While walking the streets, look up to observe the numerous facades that are adorned with the swirling natural themes, bare-breasted goddesses, and legendary creatures typical of the style. Visit the historical residence that houses the Rga Art Nouveau Museum if you wish to learn more. Visit the Museum of Decorative Arts & Design to find furniture and textiles in the art nouveau style.
