House of the Blackheads
A meticulously reconstructed Gothic masterpiece in Riga's Old Town, showcasing centuries of history and architectural splendor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
House of the Blackheads
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A meticulously reconstructed Gothic masterpiece in Riga's Old Town, showcasing centuries of history and architectural splendor.
"An absolute must-see in Riga! The House of the Blackheads is one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old Town."
📸 Admire from Outside
The facade is stunning! If time is limited, enjoy its beauty from the main square.
⏳ Allow an Hour Inside
Give yourself ample time to explore the interiors and medieval cellars.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Facade
A breathtaking Gothic masterpiece with intricate Renaissance-Mannerist ornamentation and sculptures. A true architectural marvel.
Medieval Cellars
Step back in time in the only original part of the building, a fascinating 14th-century cellar.
Presidential Silver Collection
Discover a unique display of historical silver, showcasing a significant part of Latvia's heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reconstruction Marvel
Beyond the Facade
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
House of the Blackheads, Riga , Latvia [2304x1536]
📸 Admire from Outside
The facade is stunning! If time is limited, enjoy its beauty from the main square.
⏳ Allow an Hour Inside
Give yourself ample time to explore the interiors and medieval cellars.
House of the Blackheads Riga, Latvia
The House of the Black Heads in Riga, Latvia [OS][OC][5184x3456]
🗣️ Multi-language Guides
Audio guides are available, making the history accessible to all visitors.
✨ Check for Events
The ballrooms are often used for events; check the schedule to see if any are happening.
Old Town Riga, Latvia. The House of the Blackheads, 14th century guild for rich, unmarried merchants in one of Europe's lesser explored city.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire from Outside
The facade is stunning! If time is limited, enjoy its beauty from the main square.
⏳ Allow an Hour Inside
Give yourself ample time to explore the interiors and medieval cellars.
🗣️ Multi-language Guides
Audio guides are available, making the history accessible to all visitors.
✨ Check for Events
The ballrooms are often used for events; check the schedule to see if any are happening.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the House of the Blackheads as a stunning and essential sight in Riga, marveling at its intricate facade and impressive reconstruction. While the interior offers historical depth with its medieval cellars and collections, some feel the exterior alone is sufficient for a brief visit. Overall, it's highly recommended for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
"A stunning gem in Old Riga with a captivating façade that reflects centuries of history. Originally built in 1334 for merchant gatherings and later home to the Brotherhood of Blackheads, this landmark features ornate Renaissance-Mannerist ornamentation added in the 1600s and late‑19th‑century sculptures by August Volz. It was destroyed in WWII and lovingly reconstructed from 1996–1999 with public and city funding. Today it houses a museum and elegant ballrooms, offers multi‑language audio guides, and displays a medieval cellar dating back to the 14th century. Perfect for history lovers and architecture fans!"
Abhiraj Cr
"An absolute must-see in Riga!
The House of the Blackheads is one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old Town — its stunning facade and detailed sculptures are breathtaking. The interior is equally impressive, with elegant halls, historical artifacts, and a fascinating medieval cellar that’s the only original part of the building.
It’s hard to believe this place was destroyed in WWII and rebuilt in the 1990s — the reconstruction is so detailed, it feels like stepping back in time. Staff were friendly, and the exhibits are well organized and available in several languages.
Perfect for history lovers, architecture fans, or anyone exploring Riga. Highly recommended — give yourself at least an hour to fully enjoy it!"
Bishal Upadhyaya
"Nice to see. Impressive reconstructed fassade. Nice exhibition inside but not necessary to pay entrance and to see the view rooms. For longer stay or if you are really interested. Otherwise just enjoy it from outside"
Micha D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The House of the Blackheads is centrally located in Riga's Old Town, easily accessible by foot from most hotels. If arriving by public transport, numerous bus and tram lines stop nearby in the city center.
Parking in Riga's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi, or park in a designated paid parking lot outside the immediate vicinity.
Yes, the Riga Central Market is a short and pleasant walk (about 5-10 minutes) from the House of the Blackheads, making it easy to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open daily from around 10 AM to 5 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Ticket prices vary for adults and concessions. While some visitors find the interior exhibition worthwhile, others suggest enjoying the exterior if on a budget.
Booking in advance is generally not required, especially during off-peak times. However, for special events or during peak tourist season, it might be advisable.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children. Some visitors have reported receiving free entry with specific credentials, like journalist passes.
While the ground floor and some exhibition areas are accessible, the medieval cellars may present challenges due to their historical nature. It's advisable to inquire directly about accessibility for specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always check for signage.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photographing the facade. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
The main square provides a fantastic vantage point for the entire facade. Look for interesting angles that capture the detailed sculptures and the clock.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find elegant ballrooms, historical artifacts, the Presidential Silver Collection, and the unique 14th-century medieval cellars.
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the interior exhibitions and the medieval cellars.
While official guided tours might be limited, audio guides are available in multiple languages to enhance your understanding of the history and architecture.
The cat statue is a local legend, said to have been placed there by a disgruntled merchant who was denied entry into the Brotherhood of Blackheads.
Yes, the 14th-century medieval cellars are a highlight and are accessible as part of the interior visit. They are the only original part of the building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical exhibits might be more engaging for older children, the sheer grandeur of the building and the stories behind its reconstruction can be a great way to introduce younger visitors to history and architecture in a captivating way. Consider focusing on the visual aspects and the 'story' of the building's destruction and rebirth.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore the 14th-century medieval cellars, the sole surviving original section, which provides a direct link to the building's medieval past. The Presidential Silver Collection also offers a deep dive into Latvian heritage. The availability of multi-language audio guides ensures a thorough understanding of the historical context and architectural details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Reconstruction
What you see today is a testament to meticulous restoration. The reconstruction efforts, funded by public and city contributions, took place from 1996 to 1999. This painstaking process ensured that the building's historical and architectural integrity was preserved, making it appear as if it had stood for centuries, despite its relatively recent rebirth.
This reconstruction is a key point for visitors to understand. While the structure evokes medieval charm, its modern revival is a significant part of its story, highlighting Latvia's dedication to its cultural heritage.
Exploring the Interior Treasures
A significant highlight is the Presidential Silver Collection, a display of exquisite silverware that reflects Latvia's rich cultural and historical legacy. For those fascinated by the building's origins, the medieval cellars are a must-see. Dating back to the 14th century, these cellars are the only original part of the structure that survived the war, offering a tangible connection to the building's earliest days.
To enhance the visitor experience, multi-language audio guides are available, providing detailed insights into the history, architecture, and artifacts within each room. This makes the visit informative and engaging for international travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit