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Latvian National Museum of Art: A Treasury of Latvian Art

Explore Latvia's artistic soul at the Latvian National Museum of Art, showcasing a rich collection from the 18th century to the present day.

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The Latvian National Museum of Art in Riga is the country's most significant depository of art, showcasing the development of Latvian art from the 18th century to the present. Housed in a striking historicist building, it offers a comprehensive overview of the nation's artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Latvian National Museum of Art

Local tips

  • Visit on the last Sunday of the month for free admission to the permanent exhibitions.
  • Download the free museum app for audio guides in English, Latvian, and Russian.
  • Explore the roof terraces for unique views of Riga (accessible with an all-inclusive ticket or a ticket to the permanent exhibition).
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Latvian National Museum of Art is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus and trolleybus stops are within a short walking distance, including 'Mākslas muzejs' (2 min walk), 'Elizabetes iela' (3 min walk), and 'Esplanāde' (5 min walk). Bus lines 11, 37, 31, and 53, as well as trolleybus lines 3, 5, and 25, serve the 'Mākslas muzejs' stop. A single fare for public transport in Riga typically costs around €1.15 - €2.00, depending on the type of ticket purchased.

  • Walking

    The museum is located in central Riga and is easily reachable on foot from many popular areas. From the Freedom Monument, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through the city center. From the Old Town, cross the Aspazijas bulvāris and head along Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela. The museum is located on Jaņa Rozentāla laukums 1, next to Esplanade Park.

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Discover more about Latvian National Museum of Art

The Latvian National Museum of Art (Latvijas Nacionālais mākslas muzejs) stands as a cornerstone of Latvian culture, celebrating the nation's rich artistic heritage. Located in central Riga, in the Esplanade Park ensemble, the museum's main building is an architectural landmark, reflecting the grandeur of the city. The museum's collection traces its roots to the 19th century, a period of growing national consciousness in Latvia. Dedicated individuals began collecting and exhibiting works by local artists, laying the foundation for the museum's extensive holdings. The museum building itself was constructed between 1903 and 1905 and was the first structure purpose-built to be an art museum in the Baltics. Designed by Baltic German architect Wilhelm Neumann, the building is a notable example of historicist architecture, incorporating Baroque forms with plaster, sandstone, and granite finishes. The museum's collection includes over 52,000 works of art, encompassing paintings, sculptures, graphics, and decorative arts. The permanent exhibitions provide a visual and emotional story of Latvian art across two centuries, highlighting important works and creators within their cultural, historical, political, and social contexts. Visitors can explore a range of artistic styles and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse artistic expressions that have flourished within Latvian culture. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing both Latvian and international artists. In 2016, the museum completed a €29 million renovation that doubled its size and modernized its infrastructure. The museum also provides educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. A free mobile app offers audio guides in Latvian, Russian, and English.

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