- Address: Old Riga, Riga, Latvia;
- Arranged: in 1950;
- Architect: P. Seletsky.
One of the main tourist places of Riga is the area of Liv, which was built relatively recently in comparison with other buildings of the city. It attracts tourists with stunning architectural buildings located on it.
Area of Liv, Riga - history of creation
In 1950, the project was developed Seletsky, according to which the territory, crushed by fascist raids, turned into a beautiful and functional place. At first, the square was named "Square at the Philharmonic", because the Great Guild building is located in this same space. At that time, the Latvian Philharmonic Society functioned there. The new name of the square was invented already in 2000.
The following reconstruction works occurred in 1975 according to the project of Barons - deserved landscape architect. The changes were as follows:
- There were paths, places for rest, and in the center a pool with a fountain was built.
- It is interesting and such a master's idea how to make a decorative lawn, which would completely repeat the landscape of the time when the river flowed along this river in Riga.
- In winter, you can meet as many people there as in the summer. After all, an ice rink is poured into the square, which is open to both adults and children.
Līvu Square, Riga, through the eyes of tourists
As the place is in the old part of Riga, then it will not pass by it, therefore it is visited daily by many tourists. Here you can admire the original residential buildings that have been preserved since the 17th century. The houses instantly attract tourists' attention with genuine charm.
Those who visit the area in the summer, will be able to sit at the table of an open cafe and admire the amazing view around. The constant revival in the square is due to the presence of restaurants and clubs around it. In the evenings, more people gather here to listen to street musicians.
Places of interest in Livia Square
In addition to an interesting landscape on the square of Livs are buildings worthy of attention even the most experienced tourist. We are talking about the Great and the Small Guild , the famous Koshkin House and the Riga Russian Theater :
- It is impossible to miss the Big or Small guild , because they literally live side by side on the same street. Most of all tourists are attracted by the rich interior of buildings. The appearance of the two guilds was due to the split of the one in the middle of the 14th century. Then the Small Guild went to the masters, and the Big Guild went to the merchants.
- They know about the cat's house far beyond Riga and Latvia , but not because the building has a unique architecture, but because of weathervanes in the form of black cats with raised tails, which the owner of the building placed. It was a kind of act of retribution of the merchant guild, which denied Blumer membership. At the same weather vane looked in the direction of the room of the head of the guild not the most decent part. Later, the homeowner was taken into the guild, and the cat was turned towards the Small Guild. This story guides with pleasure tell tourists so far.
- The Riga Russian Theater was opened in 1883 and is considered the oldest drama theater outside of Russia. His repertoire is Russian and world classics, and the troupe is always actively engaged in tours and participation in festivals.
How to get to Liva Square?
The area of Livs is located in the heart of the Old Town , surrounded by such streets: Meistaru, Zirgu and Kalku. If you use as a landmark such famous landmark as St. Peter's Church, then it can be reached on foot, the path will be less than 5 minutes.
You can use public transport, tram routes № 5, 7 and 9. You need to leave at the bus stop Nacionālā opera. Then proceed along Aspazijas bulvāris to the intersection with Kalku iela. It is necessary to reach the intersection with Meistaru iela, after which it is necessary to turn onto this street and walk a few more meters.