Why is it called Riga?

The evidence is conclusive, however, that Riga owes its name to its already-established role in commerce between East and West, as a borrowing of the Latvian rija, for warehouse, the "y" sound of the "j" later transcribed and hardened in German to a "g"—most notably, Riga is named Rie (no "g") in English geographer ...

When did Riga become Latvian?

Latvia's independence was declared in Riga on November 18, 1918, and the city became the new republic's capital. With the Russian border closed to eastern trade, the port's transit role declined, but its agricultural and timber exports became the core of the national economy.

What is Riga famous for?

Riga was founded in 1201, and is a former Hanseatic League member. Riga's historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its Art Nouveau/Jugendstil architecture and 19th century wooden architecture. Riga was the European Capital of Culture in 2014, along with Umeå in Sweden.

Was Riga ever part of Lithuania?

Riga was likewise incorporated into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1581 but was taken by the Swedish king Gustav II Adolf in 1621; Vidzeme--that is to say, the greater part of Livonia north of the Western Dvina--was ceded to Sweden by the Truce of Altmark (1629), though Latgale, the southeastern area, remained ...

Is Riga majority Russian?

Russians constitute by far Latvia's largest ethnic minority group, comprising more than a quarter (25.6 per cent) of the population. Living predominantly in urban areas, Russians have a particularly strong demographic presence in the capital Riga, where they account for close to half of the city's population.

Latvia Explained!

Can I speak Russian in Riga?

This was an increase from 17 percent in 2022. In Latvia, around a third of residents speak Russian as their native language, and in the capital, Riga, about half of the population is Russian speaking.

What is the main religion in Riga?

Religion in Latvia today

Historically, the west and central parts of the country have been predominantly Protestant, while the east – particularly the Latgale region – has been predominantly Catholic, although Catholics are now common in Riga and other cities due to migration from Latgale.

What is the sister city of Riga?

Rīga and Bremen have a common history that spans several centuries, and the relationship between the two Hanseatic cities is basically as old as Riga itself. The Latvian capital was founded in 1201 by Albert von Buxhoeveden, a bishop from Bremen, who ten years later laid the foundation stone of the Riga Cathedral.

Is Latvia friends with Lithuania?

The Concept of Baltic-based Friendship

Historically Latvia and Lithuania have always been considered to be the closest nations in terms of ethnicity and language.

What language is older, Latvian or Lithuanian?

The differences between Lithuanian and Latvian can be summarized in very broad terms by saying that Lithuanian is far more archaic than Latvian and that modern written Lithuanian could in many instances serve as a “protolanguage” for it.

Where to avoid in Riga?

If you're in these areas, carry ID with you at all times and follow the advice of local authorities. Petty crime may occur, particularly in Riga. This includes bag snatching, pickpocketing and muggings. Hotspots include Old Town, the central train and bus stations, the Central Market, parks, and routes to major hotels.

What is the national dish of Riga?

Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi. Latvia's national dish is a hearty, warming type of stew that dates back to a time when produce was scarce during the harsh winter months.

Is Riga cheap or expensive?

Answer: On average, daily expenses in Riga can range between €50 to €100 per person, depending on your lifestyle and travel preferences. Budget travelers can spend significantly less by opting for economical lodging and utilizing public transportation, while mid-range and luxury options are also widely available.

Why did Russia invade Latvia?

In 1991, the USSR's military invaded Lithuania and Latvia to put down the independence movements but failed. It wasn't as if either Baltic state had much of a military. I'd say they no military at all. OTOH the USSR had the second largest military on the planet at such time.

What are some fun facts about Riga?

Is Latvian Slavic or Germanic?

Lithuanian belongs to the Indo-European family, and is descended from the East Baltic branch. Only Lithuanian and Latvian have survived from this large family. The Baltic, the Slavic, and the Germanic languages have many common traits; there are even more similarities among the Baltic and Slavic languages.

Which Baltic country is the friendliest?

The friendliest countries according to informant responses are Estonia (69.2%) and Lithuania (65.3%). (Percentages designate the share of respondents naming the respective country in the top five list of either friendliest or least friendly countries). Both Baltic neighbors are far ahead compared to other countries.

What is the currency in Latvia?

The currency in Latvia is the euro. Each euro is divided into 100 cents. When you're buying currency for Latvia, look out for the currency code EUR.

Which country is better, Latvia or Lithuania?

Quality of Life: Quality of life indices favor Lithuania, particularly in the capital Vilnius, which boasts better infrastructure, safety, and healthcare when compared to Riga in Latvia. This makes Lithuania especially appealing for those seeking a well-rounded, secure living environment.

Which city is bigger, Riga or Vilnius?

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has officially become the largest city in the Baltics, overtaking Latvia's capital, Riga. This milestone is confirmed by official data agencies from both Latvia and Lithuania.

Why is the population of Latvia declining?

Current Demographic Situation in Latvia

This decrease of about 17% between 2000 and 2020 is attributed to a combination of negative natural increase, where deaths outnumber births, and net emigration.

What has Latvia invented?

Are there Jews in Latvia?

The population in the 2021 census rose from 6,454 to 8,094. This included 4 Karaim and 3 Krymchaks. Around three-quarters of the Jews are Latvian citizens, which is a high percentage for an ethnic minority in Latvia. In 2023, a mass grave of dozens of Jews slain by Nazis in 1941 was detected in Liepāja.

What to eat in Latvia?