Monument to Kārlis Padegs
A tribute to the 'shocking' Latvian artist Kārlis Padegs, capturing his bohemian spirit and unique perspective on urban life in Riga.
The monument to Kārlis Padegs stands on Merķeļa iela, opposite the Riga Latvian Society House, in Riga's Centra rajons. It honors Kārlis Padegs, a Latvian painter, graphic artist, and bohemian figure who lived from 1911 to 1940. Padegs is remembered for his original and shocking style, often exploring themes of modern urban life, anti-war sentiments, idealized dream worlds, and sarcastic self-portraits. The bronze sculpture portrays Padegs as a distracted dandy, reflecting his flamboyant persona. He is depicted wearing a suit and hat and holding a flower. Padegs' art was characterized by expressive distortion, refined features, and sharp contrasts. His work often depicted the derelicts of society, including the city's poor, prostitutes, and drunkards. The monument was initiated by R. Chervenak-Virkavs and unveiled in the summer of 1998. Sculptor Andris Vārpa and architect Arno Heinrihsons created the monument. Padegs studied under Vilhelms Purvītis at the Latvia Art Academy. His art diverged from the contemporary focus on beauty, instead expressing unpleasant and even ugly traits. Padegs died in Riga in April 1940 from tuberculosis.
Local tips
- Take a moment to observe the details of the sculpture, such as the flower in his hand and the details of his attire, which reflect Padegs's flamboyant personality.
- Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art to see some of Padegs's original works, including his famous 'Madonna with Machine Gun'.
- Explore the surrounding area of Merķeļa iela, which offers a mix of historical buildings, shops, and cafes.
A brief summary to Piemineklis Kārlim Padegam
- Merķeļa iela 13, Riga, Central District, 1050, LV
Getting There
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Walking
The Kārlis Padegs Monument is located on Merķeļa iela in central Riga. From the Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis), walk east along Brīvības bulvāris, then turn right onto Merķeļa iela. The monument will be on your right, across from the Riga Latvian Society House. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
The Kārlis Padegs Monument is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus, tram, and trolleybus lines stop near the monument. From Riga Central Station, take tram number 1, 3, 6, 11 or bus number 50, 51, 52, 55. Get off at the stop 'Merkela iela'. The monument will be across the street. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Riga. A short taxi ride from a central location like the Old Town (Vecrīga) to the Kārlis Padegs Monument will typically cost around €6, including the starting fee and per kilometer charge. Taxi fares generally start at €2.50, with an additional €0.70 per kilometer. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt are also popular and can be used to book a ride.
