Riga castle is strategically placed on the banks of the Daugava to oversee all the ships, coming into the port. It was built in 1330 as a residence for the Livonian order governing body, Riga Castle later served as the seat of the secular powers. Beginning with the second part of the 16th century, when the Livonian Order was reformed, the members of Polish, Swedish and Russian secular power had their seats there.
Riga Castle got rebuilt at the end of the 18th century, and at the beginning of the 19th century the second floor was built. Also, in the 18th century, the square near the castle with the tower on each corner was constructed. The last reconstruction was made in the 30s of the 20th century by architect E.Laube. The gate, interiors and furniture was designed by A.Cirulis. Now the President of Latvia has a residence in one of the castle's wings. |
