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Latvian War Museum: A Chronicle of Conflict

Explore Latvia's military past at the War Museum in Riga's historic Powder Tower. Free entry!

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The Latvian War Museum in Riga, housed in the historic Powder Tower, showcases Latvia's turbulent military and political history, particularly its struggles for independence in the 20th century. With over 25,400 artifacts, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the nation's wartime experiences.

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Local tips

  • Allow at least two hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
  • Visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special exhibitions.
  • The museum offers guided tours for small groups; book in advance by phone.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Latvian War Museum is located in the heart of Riga's Old Town. From the Freedom Monument, walk south along Brīvības iela, then turn right onto Smilšu iela. The museum will be on your left at Smilšu street 20. The walk is approximately 8 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the museum via public transport, take tram number 1 or 2 to the 'Jāņa sēta' stop. From there, walk along Jāņa sēta street until you reach Brīvības iela, turn left, and then turn right onto Smilšu iela. The museum is at Smilšu street 20. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Riga. A short taxi ride to the Latvian War Museum from the city center will typically cost between €2.55 and €5. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Latvian War Museum

The Latvian War Museum, situated in Riga's Old Town, stands as a testament to the country's complex military and political journey. Established in 1916 as the Latvian Riflemen Museum, it found its home in the 14th-century Powder Tower in 1919. This medieval fortification, the only remaining of Riga's original defense towers, has itself witnessed centuries of conflict. The museum's mission is to present Latvia's military and political history, emphasizing the 20th century when the Latvian people fought for their independence. The collection includes over 25,400 artifacts, organized into thematic collections. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the art of warfare, the experiences of Latvian soldiers, the First and Second World Wars, the Latvian Army, the Soviet occupation, and the declarations of independence in 1918 and 1991. The Powder Tower, which houses the museum, has a rich history. It has been rebuilt several times and acquired its current name in the 17th century when it was used to store gunpowder. The tower once held eleven cannons and a "cannon ball catcher". It has also served as a prison, torture chamber, and weapons storage facility. Today, nine Russian cannonballs remain embedded in its walls, a reminder of past assaults. Beyond the central building, the museum has two sister sites: the Christmas Battle Museum in Tīreļpurvs and the Oskars Kalpaks Museum “Airītes” in Saldus District.

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