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House of the Black Heads: A Symbol of Riga's Hanseatic Past

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

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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 and celebration venue for merchants, it later became associated with the Brotherhood of Black Heads, a guild of unmarried foreign merchants. Destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in 1999, it stands as a magnificent landmark and event center.

A brief summary to House of the Black Heads

Local tips

  • Explore the medieval cellar, the only original part of the building that survived World War II.
  • Check the event schedule for concerts and cultural performances held in the grand ballrooms.
  • Take advantage of the audio guides available in seven languages for a comprehensive tour.
  • Visit the Roll Bar inside the House of the Black Heads for hot and refreshing drinks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of the Black Heads is located in the heart of Old Town Riga on Rātslaukums 7, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From St. Peter's Church, walk approximately 150 meters towards the Town Hall Square. From the Freedom Monument, walk approximately 700 meters towards the Daugava River. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The House of the Black Heads is accessible via Riga's public transportation. Take tram number 1 or bus number 22 to the Grēcinieku iela stop, which is a short walk from the House of the Black Heads. A single 90-minute e-ticket costs €1.50. Tickets can be purchased in advance at kiosks, shopping centers, or via mobile app.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available in Riga. A short taxi ride from the Riga Central Market to the House of the Black Heads typically costs around €6, with a base fare of €2.50 and a per kilometer price of €0.70. Be sure to confirm the price 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 is a captivating landmark in Riga's Old Town, steeped in history and architectural splendor. Originally constructed in 1334 as the 'New House,' it served as a meeting and banquet hall for various Riga organizations. In the 17th century, it became the primary residence of the Brotherhood of Black Heads, a jovial group of unmarried merchants, mainly of German origin. The building's facade showcases a blend of architectural styles and artistic trends from different periods, most notably the Dutch Renaissance. The Brotherhood of Black Heads played a significant role in Riga's economic and cultural life, organizing celebrations and contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere. The building features grand ballrooms where prestigious events, including royal welcomes, took place. The House also holds the distinction of being the location of the first decorated Christmas tree in 1510. During World War II, the House of the Black Heads was devastated by bombing in 1941. The Soviets demolished the remains in 1948. However, during Latvia's Third National Awakening in the 1990s, the idea of restoring this jewel of Riga was born. Rebuilt between 1996 and 1999, with contributions from the city and the public, it was reconsecrated on December 9, 1999. Today, visitors can explore the historic cellars, which survived the war, and view interactive exhibitions about Riga's commerce and the Black Heads. The building also hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other events.

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