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House of the Black Heads: A Symbol of Riga's Rich History

Explore Riga's Hanseatic history at the House of the Black Heads, a stunningly reconstructed landmark in the heart of Old Town.

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The House of the Black Heads, located in Riga's Old Town, is a meticulously reconstructed building with a rich history dating back to 1334. Originally a meeting place for merchants, it later became the home of the Brotherhood of Black Heads, a guild of unmarried foreign merchants. Destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt in 1999 and now serves as a museum and event venue.

A brief summary to House of the Black Heads

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the House of the Black Heads.
  • Visit the medieval cellar to see the original surviving section of the building.
  • Check the event schedule to see if there are any concerts or cultural performances during your visit.
  • Explore the silver collection and other artifacts related to the Brotherhood of Black Heads.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of the Black Heads is located in the heart of Riga's Old Town, on Rātslaukums 7. From most points within the Old Town, it is easily accessible on foot. Simply follow the cobblestone streets towards the Town Hall Square, where the building's distinctive facade is easily visible. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from outside the Old Town, Riga offers an extensive public transportation network. Several bus and tram lines stop near the Old Town. From the 13.janvāra iela stop, near the Central Market, you can take tram line 1 or bus line 22 to the Grēcinieku iela stop, which is a short walk from the House of the Black Heads. A single fare for public transport is approximately €1.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Riga. A short taxi ride from the central train station to the House of the Black Heads would typically cost between €5 and €10. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about House of the Black Heads

The House of the Black Heads stands proudly in Riga's Town Hall Square, a testament to the city's Hanseatic past and its enduring spirit. Originally known as the New House, it was erected in 1334 as a gathering place for various Riga organizations. In the 17th century, it became the primary residence of the Brotherhood of Black Heads, young, unmarried merchants, primarily of German origin, who were known for their jovial nature and entrepreneurial spirit. The building's facade showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting its evolution through the centuries. The Brotherhood of Black Heads played a significant role in Riga's cultural and economic life, organizing celebrations and contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere. The building itself became a symbol of their influence and prosperity. The House of the Black Heads suffered extensive damage during World War II, and the remains were eventually demolished. However, during Latvia's Third National Awakening in the 1990s, the decision was made to rebuild this iconic landmark. Reconstructed between 1996 and 1999, the House of the Black Heads now stands as a museum and event space. Visitors can explore the historic cellars, which survived the war, and admire the grand ballrooms and meticulously recreated interiors. The building also hosts exhibitions showcasing the history of the Brotherhood of Black Heads and Riga's Hanseatic past. From 2012 to 2016, the House of the Black Heads even served as a temporary residence for the President of Latvia. Today, the House of the Black Heads remains one of Riga's most important landmarks, a symbol of the city's resilience and its rich cultural heritage.

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