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House of the Black Heads: A Symbol of Riga's Rich History

Explore Riga's iconic House of the Black Heads: a symbol of history, resilience, and architectural grandeur in the heart of Old Town.

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The House of the Black Heads, located in Riga's Old Town, is a meticulously reconstructed building with a vibrant history dating back to 1334. Originally a meeting place for the Brotherhood of Black Heads, a guild of unmarried merchants, it stands as a testament to Riga's Hanseatic past and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to House of the Black Heads

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the rich history and significance of the House of the Black Heads.
  • Visit the medieval cellar to see the original surviving part of the building and experience the atmosphere of medieval Riga.
  • Check the event schedule to see if there are any concerts or cultural performances during your visit.
  • Explore the exhibits showcasing items that once belonged to the Brotherhood of Black Heads.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The House of the Black Heads is located in the heart of Riga's Old Town, on Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square). From most points within the Old Town, it is easily accessible on foot. Landmarks like St. Peter's Church and Riga Cathedral are just a short walk away. As you approach the Town Hall Square, look for the building's distinctive red-brick facade, ornate clocks, and detailed sculptures. No costs are involved when approaching the House of the Black Heads by walking.

  • Public Transport

    Riga offers an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Several routes stop near the Old Town. Check the Riga public transport website (rigassatiksme.lv) or use a journey planning app like Google Maps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest stop, follow walking directions to Rātslaukums 7. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber are readily available in Riga. Simply request a ride to Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga. The journey from the city center should be relatively short and inexpensive. Taxi fares in Riga start at €2.50, with a per-kilometer price of €0.70. A 5km ride would cost approximately €6.

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Discover more about House of the Black Heads

The House of the Black Heads, situated in the heart of Riga's Old Town, is a captivating landmark with a storied past. Constructed in 1334, it initially served as a venue for meetings and banquets for various Riga organizations, known then as the New House. From the mid-15th century, it became associated with the Brotherhood of Black Heads, a guild of unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners. These jovial and enterprising individuals, mostly of German origin, left an indelible mark on the building's character and Riga's cultural life. Over the centuries, the House of the Black Heads underwent numerous reconstructions, resulting in its current opulent Dutch Renaissance facade, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and artistic trends. The building served as a central hub for Riga's social and economic life, hosting receptions for distinguished guests and playing a vital role in promoting entrepreneurship. The Brotherhood was known for organizing lively festivals and cultural events, solidifying the House as a key cultural center in the city. The House is credited with displaying the first public Christmas tree in 1510. Tragically, the House of the Black Heads was destroyed during World War II in 1941. The remains were demolished by the Soviet government in 1948. However, during Latvia's Third National Awakening in the 1990s, the idea of restoring this iconic building was born. It was rebuilt between 1996 and 1999, based on historical studies and with the support of donations from the public. Today, the reconstructed House of the Black Heads stands as a symbol of Riga's resilience and rich heritage. Visitors can explore its grand halls, admire the craftsmanship of its interiors, and delve into the history of the Brotherhood of Black Heads. The medieval cellar, which survived the war, offers a glimpse into the building's original structure and the underground of Old Riga.

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