Three Brothers
Iconic medieval dwellings showcasing Riga's architectural evolution, housing the free Latvian Museum of Architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Three Brothers
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic medieval dwellings showcasing Riga's architectural evolution, housing the free Latvian Museum of Architecture.
"A fascinating glimpse into Riga's architectural history, with free museum entry!"
📸 Capture the Details
Notice the intricate carvings and unique architectural styles on each facade. Great for photography!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Reserve at least 2 hours to explore the museum and appreciate the history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Oldest Brother (No. 17)
Old Town, Riga
Gothic charm from the 15th century, Riga's oldest stone-built house. A true medieval gem.
The Middle Brother (No. 19)
Old Town, Riga
Dutch Renaissance flair from 1646, showcasing ornate decorations and wider windows.
The Youngest Brother (No. 21)
Old Town, Riga
A 17th-century addition, simpler yet harmonizing beautifully with its siblings.
Latvian Museum of Architecture
Inside the Three Brothers complex
Explore Riga's architectural past and secrets within these historic walls. Free entry!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Free Entry, Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Massive difficulty spike with The Three Brothers. What can I do?
📸 Capture the Details
Notice the intricate carvings and unique architectural styles on each facade. Great for photography!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Reserve at least 2 hours to explore the museum and appreciate the history.
Help with 3 brothers DLC
Could use some advice for the Three Brothers DLC.
💰 Free Admission!
Enjoy the exterior views and the Latvian Museum of Architecture at no cost.
🚶♀️ Wander the Old Town
The Three Brothers are a highlight of Riga's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Notice the intricate carvings and unique architectural styles on each facade. Great for photography!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Reserve at least 2 hours to explore the museum and appreciate the history.
💰 Free Admission!
Enjoy the exterior views and the Latvian Museum of Architecture at no cost.
🚶♀️ Wander the Old Town
The Three Brothers are a highlight of Riga's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find The Three Brothers to be a fascinating and historically significant landmark in Riga's Old Town, particularly appreciating the free entry to the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the distinct architectural styles of the three dwellings. Some note that while the exteriors are impressive, the interior access is limited to the museum.
"The Three Brothers in Riga is a complex of three houses, built between 15th and 17th century. The oldest one built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest stone-built houses in Riga. The three buildings have different architectural style. It's part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Riga's Old Town. Found it very interesting."
Soudamini Mohapatra
"The Three Brothers are the oldest residential houses in Riga and a fascinating glimpse into the city’s architectural history. Located in the Old Town, these three adjoining buildings each represent a different period and style, telling the story of Riga’s development over the centuries.
The oldest “brother” (No. 17) dates back to the late 15th century and is built in late Gothic style, with a narrow façade and stepped gable, reflecting medieval merchant life.
The middle “brother” (No. 19) was constructed in 1646 in Dutch Renaissance style, with ornate decorations and larger windows, showing the influence of Western Europe.
The youngest “brother” (No. 21) is from the 17th century as well, simpler in design but harmonizing beautifully with the others.
According to legend, the houses were built by three men from the same family—hence the name “Three Brothers.” Today, they host the Latvian Museum of Architecture and are a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and beautiful old buildings.
⭐ Tip: Visit early in the day for fewer crowds, and take a moment to notice the little details carved into the façades"
Maria Curea
"Beautiful place with a nice history behind one of the must go place in Riga. Interesting to stay, to learn and appreciate the local history and secrets. Reserve at least 2 hours to be able to see everything and take nice pictures."
Wislan Nogueira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Three Brothers are located in the heart of Riga's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. If arriving by public transport, trams and buses stop frequently near the Old Town.
Parking in Riga's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a designated car park outside the immediate vicinity and walk.
Yes, The Three Brothers are a common stop on many Riga Old Town walking tours. This is a great way to learn about their history and legends.
The best way to explore is on foot. The Old Town is very walkable, and you can easily discover hidden courtyards and other historical sites nearby.
The exteriors are accessible, but the museum interiors may have limitations due to the historic nature of the buildings. Check with the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the exterior of The Three Brothers is free. The Latvian Museum of Architecture located within the complex also offers free admission.
The buildings themselves are historic structures, and their exteriors are always visible. The Latvian Museum of Architecture has specific opening hours, which can vary, so it's best to check their official website.
No, the Latvian Museum of Architecture is free to enter, making it a fantastic and accessible cultural experience.
The Latvian Museum of Architecture is housed within one of the buildings. The other two are historic residential buildings and are not typically open to the public for interior visits, though their exteriors are a sight to behold.
The Latvian Museum of Architecture occasionally hosts exhibitions. It's advisable to check their website or local event listings for any current happenings.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing crowds and creating a more atmospheric shot. The golden hour can be particularly magical.
Generally, exterior photography is allowed and encouraged. Photography inside the Latvian Museum of Architecture may have some restrictions, so be mindful of signage.
Try capturing them from across the street to get all three in one frame. Also, focus on the unique architectural details of each individual house.
Drone usage in Riga's Old Town is highly restricted due to its UNESCO status and dense urban environment. It's best to avoid drones to prevent issues.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing all three buildings together. A standard zoom lens is great for details. A tripod can help with low-light shots in the early morning or late evening.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
These are Riga's oldest residential houses, built between the 15th and 17th centuries. Each represents a different architectural style and period, showcasing the city's evolution.
The oldest (No. 17) is late Gothic, the middle (No. 19) is Dutch Renaissance, and the youngest (No. 21) is from the 17th century with a simpler design.
Legend has it that the houses were built by three men from the same family, hence their collective name.
They are a significant part of Riga's architectural heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into medieval and early modern urban life.
The museum preserves and showcases Latvia's rich architectural history, offering context and deeper understanding of buildings like The Three Brothers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum itself might have some limitations for very young children, the exterior exploration is entirely accessible. Encourage kids to look for interesting details on the facades. Consider framing it as a quest to find the 'oldest,' 'middle,' and 'youngest' brother. The surrounding Old Town is also great for a family stroll.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture all three buildings in a single frame, or zoom in on the intricate details of each facade. The contrast between the Gothic, Renaissance, and 17th-century styles offers a rich visual narrative. Remember that drone photography is generally prohibited in Riga's Old Town, so focus on ground-level shots.
🏛️ History Buffs
Understanding the evolution from the 15th-century Gothic to the 17th-century styles offers a tangible connection to the past. The legends associated with the buildings add another layer of intrigue. Allocate ample time to absorb the historical significance and the stories these ancient walls hold.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Evolution of The Three Brothers
The middle brother, No. 19, constructed in 1646, showcases the influence of the Dutch Renaissance. This period saw a shift towards more ornate decoration and larger, more prominent windows, reflecting increased trade and cultural exchange with Western Europe. Its facade is more elaborate, signaling a change in architectural aesthetics and the prosperity of the era.
Finally, the youngest brother, No. 21, also from the 17th century, presents a simpler design that nonetheless harmonizes with its older siblings. While less ostentatious, it completes the visual narrative of the complex, demonstrating a continued architectural development and a sense of cohesive urban planning. Together, these three buildings offer a unique chronological display of Riga's architectural history.
Exploring the Latvian Museum of Architecture
What makes a visit particularly rewarding is the free admission, making it an accessible cultural experience for all travelers. Visitors can expect to learn about everything from ancient fortifications to modern urban planning. The museum's location within such a historically significant site enhances the immersive experience, allowing you to literally walk through the history you are learning about.
To make the most of your visit, consider dedicating at least an hour to explore the museum's displays. It's an excellent opportunity to understand the stories behind Riga's charming streets and buildings, offering a deeper appreciation for the city's UNESCO World Heritage status.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit