St. Saviour's Anglican Church - A church in the city
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St. Saviour's Anglican Church

4.6
·333 reviews·Rīga, Latvia

A historic Victorian Gothic church in Riga, offering peaceful reflection, free organ concerts, and the charm of its resident cat, Grace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesdays at 1 PM

Live music and cat sightings

CrowdLow
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St. Saviour's Anglican Church - A church in the city

St. Saviour's Anglican Church

Best Time

Wednesdays at 1 PM

Live music and cat sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Victorian Gothic church in Riga, offering peaceful reflection, free organ concerts, and the charm of its resident cat, Grace.

4.6
(333 reviews)

"A beautiful old Protestant church in the center of Riga, easily recognizable by its tall bell tower."

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TIP

🎶 Enjoy Free Concerts

Catch free organ concerts, often held weekly. Donations are appreciated to support the church's upkeep.

🐾 Meet Grace the Cat

Look out for Grace, the friendly church cat, who often makes an appearance and adds to the charm.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Gothic Architecture

Victorian Gothic Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the striking Victorian Gothic design, featuring bricks imported from Britain, a testament to its historical roots.

Free Organ Concerts

Free Organ Concerts

Main Sanctuary

Experience the enchanting melodies of live organ music, often offered free of charge with voluntary donations.

Grace the Church Cat

Grace the Church Cat

Throughout the Church

Meet Grace, the beloved resident cat, who adds a unique and cozy charm to the church's atmosphere.

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A Peaceful Escape in Riga

Discover St. Saviour's Anglican Church, a historic gem offering a tranquil atmosphere and a glimpse into Riga's past. Perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or to enjoy a unique cultural experience.

Community and Culture Hub

More than just a church, St. Saviour's is a vibrant community center. Learn about its social programs, including a soup kitchen, and enjoy free organ concerts that add a special touch to your visit.

Best Times

When
Wednesdays at 1 PM
Why
Live music and cat sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎶 Enjoy Free Concerts

Catch free organ concerts, often held weekly. Donations are appreciated to support the church's upkeep. Reddit

🐾 Meet Grace the Cat

Look out for Grace, the friendly church cat, who often makes an appearance and adds to the charm. Reddit

📍 Central Location

Easily accessible near the Daugava River, making it a convenient stop during your Riga exploration. Reddit

💌 Send a Card

You might find cute cards from visitors worldwide, adding a personal touch to the space. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎶 Enjoy Free Concerts

Catch free organ concerts, often held weekly. Donations are appreciated to support the church's upkeep. Reddit

🐾 Meet Grace the Cat

Look out for Grace, the friendly church cat, who often makes an appearance and adds to the charm. Reddit

📍 Central Location

Easily accessible near the Daugava River, making it a convenient stop during your Riga exploration. Reddit

💌 Send a Card

You might find cute cards from visitors worldwide, adding a personal touch to the space. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(333 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Saviour's Anglican Church for its beautiful Victorian Gothic architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The free organ concerts are a highlight, as is the charming presence of Grace, the resident church cat. It's considered a worthwhile, quick stop for a moment of tranquility and cultural insight.

"St. Saviour’s Anglican Church in Riga is a historical church that has served the city’s English-speaking community since the 19th century. It was originally consecrated in 1859 after British traders and sailors, who were active in the region, established the church to support their spiritual needs. The church building, designed in a Victorian Gothic style, features bricks from Britain, including soil brought specifically for its foundation. During the Soviet era, it functioned as a cultural center, but after Latvia regained independence, the Anglican community was revived  .

Today, the church continues to serve the community, hosting not only Anglican services but also a soup kitchen for the homeless and a variety of social programs. The church is located near the Daugava River, offering a peaceful spot amidst Riga’s vibrant surroundings ."

Dani Baal

"Great small church with small organ concerts absolutely free ( voluntarily donations). Very beautiful gothic architecture and also cute cards from people all over the world. Worth a visit, it will not take too much time but great city's landmark."

Swanky Christy

"A beautiful old Protestant church in the center of Riga. Easily recognizable by its tall bell tower."

John D

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Peaceful atmosphere
Free organ concerts

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours sometimes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Saviour's Anglican Church is conveniently located in the center of Riga, near the Daugava River. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the Old Town or can be reached by public transport. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other central attractions. Reddit

Parking in central Riga can be challenging and often paid. It's recommended to use public transport or walk to the church. If driving, look for designated paid parking areas in the vicinity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to St. Saviour's Anglican Church is generally free. It's a place of worship and community, and visitors are welcome to enter and explore its peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, the church is typically open during daylight hours for visitors. It's best to check for any special event schedules that might affect access. Reddit

The organ concerts at St. Saviour's are usually free to attend, with a request for voluntary donations. This allows everyone to enjoy the beautiful music. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautiful Victorian Gothic architecture, a peaceful sanctuary, and often unique touches like cards from visitors worldwide. Keep an eye out for Grace, the resident church cat! Reddit+1

Yes, it's a great landmark for a quick visit. You can admire the architecture, enjoy the quiet ambiance, and potentially catch a concert without taking up too much time. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services or concerts. Reddit

The church building features bricks imported from Britain, with soil also brought from Britain for its foundation, reflecting the origins of its founding community. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

St. Saviour's Anglican Church is primarily a place of worship and community. While they host a soup kitchen for the homeless, there are no public dining facilities for visitors. However, numerous cafes and restaurants are located nearby in central Riga. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, with its distinctive bell tower and Victorian Gothic architecture, makes for great photos. Inside, the stained glass windows and the altar area are also picturesque. Remember to be respectful when photographing. Reddit

Yes, visitors often enjoy photographing Grace, the church cat. Just be sure to do so respectfully and without disturbing her. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Saviour's Anglican Church offers a peaceful and engaging experience for families. The Victorian Gothic architecture can spark curiosity in children, and the free organ concerts provide a unique auditory treat. The most exciting element for kids is often Grace, the friendly church cat, who is known to be quite present and can make the visit extra memorable. Reddit

It's a great spot for a quiet break during a busy day of sightseeing. The church's central location makes it easy to incorporate into a family itinerary. Remember to encourage respectful behavior, especially during concerts or services, but the overall atmosphere is welcoming.

❤️ Couples and Solo Travelers

For couples and solo travelers seeking a moment of tranquility and cultural enrichment, St. Saviour's is ideal. The peaceful ambiance offers a welcome respite from the bustling city. Enjoy a quiet stroll through the historic building, admire the architecture, and perhaps catch a free organ concert for a romantic or contemplative experience. Reddit

The presence of Grace the cat adds a unique, charming touch that many find delightful. It’s a perfect spot for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere away from the main tourist crowds.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate St. Saviour's Anglican Church for its rich past and unique construction. The Victorian Gothic design and the story of bricks and soil imported from Britain offer a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century international connections. Reddit

Learn about its role as a spiritual center for British expatriates and its survival through the Soviet era. The church's continued function as a community hub, including its soup kitchen, also speaks to its enduring legacy and relevance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

St. Saviour's Anglican Church holds a significant place in Riga's history, established in 1859 to serve the spiritual needs of British traders and sailors active in the region. The very bricks and soil used in its construction were imported from Britain, a unique testament to its origins. During the Soviet era, the building was repurposed as a cultural center, but it has since been revived as a place of worship for the Anglican community following Latvia's independence. Reddit

This historical context adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience. It's not just a beautiful building; it's a symbol of international connection and resilience through changing times. The church's location near the Daugava River also places it within a historically significant area of Riga. Reddit

Community and Social Impact

Beyond its religious functions, St. Saviour's Anglican Church is a vital community hub. It actively supports the less fortunate by hosting a soup kitchen for the homeless, providing essential aid and a sense of community. This social outreach is a core part of its mission and a testament to its commitment to serving the wider Riga population. Reddit

The church also enriches the cultural landscape of Riga through its events. Visitors often rave about the free organ concerts, which showcase talented musicians and offer a serene auditory experience. These concerts, along with other social programs, highlight the church's role as a welcoming space for all. Reddit

The Charm of Grace the Cat

One of the most delightful and frequently mentioned aspects of visiting St. Saviour's is the presence of Grace, the resident church cat. Many visitors share heartwarming anecdotes about Grace, who is known to be quite present and even has her own special access to the gallery. Reddit

Grace adds an unexpected and endearing element to the church visit, creating a cozy and almost home-like atmosphere. Her presence has become a unique talking point and a memorable part of the St. Saviour's experience, often leading to delightful encounters and photos. Reddit

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