Cat House, Riga Travel Guide

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A whimsical architectural landmark in Riga's Old Town, featuring mischievous cat sculptures with a legendary tale of defiance.

The Cat House, located on Meistaru iela in Riga's Old Town, is famous for its cat sculptures with arched backs and raised tails perched on the roof. Built in 1909, the building is a blend of medieval architecture and Art Nouveau style. The sculptures have become an unofficial symbol of Riga, linked to local legends of a merchant's feud with the Great Guild.

A brief summary to Cat House

Meistaru iela 10/12, Riga, Central District, 1050, LV
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cat House.

Look closely at the cat sculptures to appreciate their detail and expressive postures.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Old Town Riga to explore other nearby attractions.
Visit during different times of the day to see the building in varying light conditions.

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Getting There

Walking

The Cat House is located on Meistaru iela in Old Town Riga. From Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square), walk northeast towards Vāgnera iela. Turn left onto Meistaru iela and walk for about 5 minutes. The Cat House will be on your left at Meistaru iela 10/12.
Public Transport

From Riga Central Station (Rīgas Centrālā dzelzceļa stacija), take tram number 7 or 9 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Rātslaukums' stop. From there, walk northeast towards Vāgnera iela, turn left onto Meistaru iela, and walk straight for about 5 minutes. The Cat House will be on your left at Meistaru iela 10/12. A single public transport ticket costs approximately €1.15.
Car

From Riga city center, follow signs for 'Centra rajons' or 'Old Town'. Drive along Brivibas iela, then continue onto 13. janvara iela. Turn left onto Meistaru iela. The Cat House is located at Meistaru iela 10/12. Street parking is generally available, but be aware of parking regulations and fees.

Discover more about Cat House

The Cat House (Kaķu nams in Latvian) is an architectural gem in the heart of Riga's Old Town, located on Meistaru iela. Constructed in 1909 by architect Friedrich Scheffel, the building showcases a unique blend of medieval and Art Nouveau styles. However, it's the two copper cat sculptures on the roof that have captured the imagination of locals and tourists alike.The cats, with their arched backs and raised tails, have become an unofficial symbol of Riga. Several legends surround their origin, the most popular involving a wealthy Latvian merchant. According to the tale, the merchant was denied membership to the Great Guild, a powerful organization dominated by German merchants. In retaliation, he commissioned the cat sculptures and positioned them with their tails pointed towards the Great Guild building as an insult.Another version of the legend suggests the merchant had a dispute with the Riga City Council and aimed the cats towards the Town Hall. Regardless of the intended target, the gesture led to a lengthy legal battle. Eventually, the merchant was either granted membership to the Guild or a court order was issued, leading to the cats being turned to face the guildhouse.Today, the cats no longer point in any particular direction but stand as a testament to the city's playful spirit and medieval past. The building itself hosts a restaurant on the ground floor and offices in other parts. Visitors can admire the architecture, snap photos of the famous cats, and explore the charming Meistaru iela.