Latvia and RigaWelcome to Latvia, a country on the cross-roads!
"Sveiki!" as we say it in Latvian.
Latvia, one of the Baltic States, is situated in the North of Western Europe. The territory of Latvia covers 64.589 square kilometres with a population of 2.2 million people. The name "Latvia" originates from an ancient Baltic (Indo-European) tribe - the Latgalians, who formed the ethnic core of the Latvian people. The Republic of Latvia was founded on November 18th, 1918. Riga, the oldest still existing medieval city in Latvia, was founded in 1201, but evidence suggests settlements of local inhabitants were in existence as far back as the 10th Century. Nearly one third of Latvia's population (788 thousand) lives in the capital city Riga. The value of Riga's cultural and historical significance has been recognized by the fact that its old city centre has been included in UNESCO's list of the world's most important cultural and natural sites. The city suffered greatly during wars, experiencing sieges and blockades, nevertheless, it has preserved and increased its cultural heritage, its unique individuality and special beauty. One can find many monuments and interesting sites in Riga. Above all, Riga's Art nouveau buildings contribute to the charm of the city's image.
For more information: http://www.li.lv and http://www.virtualriga.com
