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Latvian Riflemen Monument: A Symbol of History and Controversy

Explore Riga's contested landmark: a powerful monument honoring Latvian Riflemen, entangled in WWI and Soviet history.

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The Latvian Riflemen Monument in Riga is a red granite structure honoring the Latvian Riflemen, formed in 1915 during WWI. Initially defenders against German advances, they later became involved with the Bolsheviks, making the monument a subject of ongoing debate about Latvia's complex past.

A brief summary to Latvian Riflemen Monument

  • Latviešu strēlnieku laukums 1, Riga, Central District, 1050, LV

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
  • Take time to read the inscriptions and learn about the history of the Latvian Riflemen.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions in the Central District for a fuller experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Riga's Old Town (Vecrīga), head towards the Daugava River and walk along the riverbank to the north. Cross Akmens tilts (Stone Bridge) and continue straight until you reach Brivibas Street. Turn left and walk along Brivibas Street until you reach Latvian Riflemen Square (Latviešu strēlnieku laukums). The monument is in the square. This walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Riga Central Station (Rīgas Centrālā Dzelzceļa Stacija), take tram number 11 or 7 towards 'Kalku iela'. Get off at the 'Raina bulvaris' stop. Walk east along Raina Boulevard until you reach Latvian Riflemen Square. The monument will be visible in the square. A single 90-minute e-ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Riga. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Latvian Riflemen Monument will cost approximately €6, with a base fare of €2.50 and €0.70 per kilometer. Ride-sharing services like Bolt are also available.

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Discover more about Latvian Riflemen Monument

The Latvian Riflemen Monument, located in Latvian Riflemen Square in Riga's Centra district, is a significant and controversial landmark. Erected in 1971, the monument commemorates the Latvian Riflemen, elite military units initially formed within the Imperial Russian Army during World War I to defend Baltic territories against German forces. Composed of red granite, the imposing statue depicts three riflemen and stands as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory roles these soldiers played in Latvian history. While initially formed to protect Latvia, the Riflemen later became entangled in the Russian Civil War, with many joining the Bolsheviks. Some even served as Lenin's personal bodyguards, further complicating the monument's symbolism. Today, the monument is a subject of debate. Some view it as a reminder of Latvia's Soviet past and the oppression of the communist regime, while others see it as a tribute to the sacrifices made by Latvian soldiers during WWI. The inscription at the base, added in 2002, reads "For the Latvian Riflemen / 1915-1920", attempting to encompass all riflemen, regardless of their political affiliations. The monument stands near the Occupation Museum, further emphasizing the weight of history in this location.

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