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House of the Blackheads - Riga - Latvia

Nikon D750 - ISO 199 - Tamron SP15-30mm lens f11 - 20mm - f/13 1/50 sec

House of the Blackheads -Latvian: Melngalvju nams- is a building situated in the old town of Riga.

The original building was erected during the first third of the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads. It was founded in the 13th century as a gentlemen’s club for wealthy single merchants and their journeymen. In 1477 they rented the Great Guild’s New Hall, which was housed in what is now the Blackheads House and in 1773, when the Great Guild moved premises, they bought it. The society’s members were mainly German, but there were also English, Scottish, Dutch, Swedish and Norwegian members.

The society’s not so politically correct name originated from one of their patron saints; St Maurice was supposedly a black African Christian Roman commander who died as martyr after refusing to kill fellow Christians. St Maurice’s head was depicted on the Blackheads coat of arms, thus giving them their name.

Unfortunately, during World War II, the building was destroyed, along with almost all of the Town Hall Square and nearby St Peter’s church tower. The remains were demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999 by Valērij Kargin the president of Parex Bank. The reconstruction was inspired by an engraving in the portal which read “Should you ever see me falling, raise me up, it’s your calling”.

The bear depicted on the photo is one of the “United Buddy Bears” who spent the summer of 2018 in Riga. They stand together “hand in hand”, symbolising the future vision of a peaceful world.

Did you know that the first documented use of a decorated tree during winter celebration was recorded in 1510 in Riga? Take a look to my story to see one of the first christmas tree decoration.

Art Nouveau Buildings

Learn about the local history of Riga when you spend time at Art Nouveau Buildings. Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.

Latvian attraction - house of the Blackheads, sculpture of Saint Roland and Saint Peters Church in old city Riga, Latvia, Shutterstock ID 309897689, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: ,

Cathedral Square

4/5(9 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Riga with a trip to Cathedral Square. Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.

Town Hall

4/5(14 reviews)

Town Hall is just one of the places to see in Riga, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.

St. Peter's Church

4.5/5(102 reviews)

Riga's tallest church is dedicated to the city’s patron saint and is where you can see new artworks, watch a concert and enjoy great views of the Latvian capital.

Riga Cathedral

4/5(111 reviews)

After visiting Riga Cathedral, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Riga. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

European Christmas market in winter Riga in Latvia. Winter. Late at evening. Street and holiday fair in European city Advent Decoration with Crafts Items on Bazaar

Riga Christmas Market

4/5(6 reviews)

During your trip to Riga, you can enjoy retail therapy at Riga Christmas Market. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Top Small Guild Hall Hotel Deals

Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel

11. Novembra Krastmala, 33 Riga

Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

Valnu street 49 Riga

Eurostars Metropole

Aspazijas Boulevard 36/38 Riga

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Kaleju Str 9/11 Riga

Neiburgs Hotel

Jauniela 25/27 Riga

Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga

55 Elizabetes Street Riga

Pullman Riga Old Town (Renovated 2025)

24 Jekaba Street Riga

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

Aspazijas Boulevard 22 Riga

Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel

73 Elizabetes Street Riga

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