Alberta Iela 13: A Masterpiece of Riga Art Nouveau

Located in the heart of Riga's Centra Rajons (Central District), Alberta Iela 13 stands as a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Constructed in 1904 by the acclaimed architect Mikhail Eisenstein, the building is a prime example of Art Nouveau, also known as Jugendstil in Latvian. Eisenstein, father of the famous filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein, designed several other notable buildings on Alberta and Elizabetes streets, each showcasing his unique vision. The building's facade is adorned with a plethora of decorative elements and symbols. Masks of various expressions, dragons, cartouches, and geometric figures fill the multi-stage pediments above the eaves. The central mask, featuring a radiant tiara, symbolizes freedom, sun, or victory. Female images, a common motif in Riga's Art Nouveau, are also prominently displayed. These include full sculptures, masks, and busts, some with dreamy expressions, others laughing, and some even appearing to scream in horror. Alberta Iela itself is considered an Art Nouveau gem, with each building on the street representing a unique architectural achievement from the early 20th century. The street was primarily constructed between 1901 and 1908, during a period of rapid economic growth in Riga. Today, eight buildings on Alberta Street are recognized as architectural monuments of national significance. In 1998, the Soros Foundation acquired the building at Alberta Iela 13 and donated it to the Riga Graduate School of Law, which undertook careful restoration of the facades and interiors between 1999 and 2002.