Latviešu strēlnieku laukums, Livonia Travel Guide

Explore Latvian Riflemen Square in Riga, a site of historical reflection and contested meanings, honoring the soldiers of Latvia's past.

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Latviešu strēlnieku laukums

Latvian Riflemen Square in Riga features a controversial red granite monument honoring the Latvian Riflemen, who fought in World War I and later split, with some forming the core of the Red Army. The square is near the Occupation Museum and reflects Latvia's complex history.

A brief summary to Latviešu strēlnieku laukums

Riga, Central District, LV

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Latviešu strēlnieku laukums.

Visit the square during sunset to see the monument bathed in golden light, enhancing its beauty.
Take time to read the inscriptions and plaques around the monument to fully appreciate its historical significance.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Museum of the Occupation of Latvia to gain a deeper understanding of Latvia's 20th-century history.

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Explore Latviešu strēlnieku laukums on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From the Riga Town Hall Square (Ratslaukums), walk southwest. The Latvian Riflemen Square is located just off the Town Hall Square, near the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. The walk is short and straightforward.
Public Transport

From Riga Central Station, take tram number 1, 2, 5, 7, 10 or 11 and get off at the National Theater stop. From there, walk southwest for a few minutes to reach Latvian Riflemen Square. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Riga. A short taxi ride from the city center to Latvian Riflemen Square will typically cost around €6, depending on traffic and the specific route. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt are also available.

Discover more about Latviešu strēlnieku laukums

Latvian Riflemen Square, located in Riga's Central District, is the site of the imposing Latvian Riflemen Monument. Erected in 1971 during the Soviet era, the monument has become a focal point for discussions about Latvia's complex and often contradictory history.The monument itself is a red granite structure depicting three riflemen standing together. It was originally dedicated to the Latvian Red Riflemen, who supported the Bolsheviks during the Russian Civil War, with some even serving as Lenin's personal bodyguards. This association has made the monument a subject of controversy, with some viewing it as a symbol of the Soviet past. Calls for its removal have been made by those who see it as a reminder of the communist regime.However, others argue that the monument serves as a tribute to the Latvian soldiers who fought in World War I, regardless of their later political affiliations. In 2000s, the inscription was changed to honor all Latvian Riflemen who participated in the war between 1915 and 1920.The Latvian Riflemen were initially formed in 1915 as part of the Imperial Russian Army to defend the Baltic territories against German advances. The battalion was made up of volunteers and conscripts. They were considered an elite force and played a crucial role in frontline battles. Despite their bravery, the Riflemen suffered heavy losses, leading to resentment towards the Russian military leadership and fueling support for the Bolsheviks.Today, Latvian Riflemen Square provides a space for reflection on Latvia's cultural heritage. The monument stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Latvian soldiers and the complex historical forces that have shaped the nation.