This sprawling green space (now mostly used as a soccer field) is home to the Victory Monument, which was built by the Soviets to commemorate the heroism of their soldiers in WWII. This is a divisive symbol, with members of the Russian community gathering here in the tens of thousands every 9 May to celebrate what they see as the victory over fascism. But for most ethnic Latvians, it is the symbol of Soviet occupation. Tram 10 stops here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Latvian National Library

0.57 MILES

Looking like a ski-jump ramp designed by Swarovski, this recent Rīga landmark is a prophesy fulfilled. A feature of many Latvian fairy tales, the Castle…

2. Kalnciema Kvartāls

0.86 MILES

A lovingly restored courtyard with several vintage wooden buildings is home to creative cafes, shops and restaurants. It's also home to a fantastic…

4. Latvian Riflemen Monument

1.02 MILES

Latvian Riflemen Sq, on the west side of the future home of the Occupation Museum, is dominated by the imposing and controversial statue honouring Latvia…

5. Rīga History & Navigation Museum

1.06 MILES

Founded in 1773 and situated in the old Rīga Cathedral monastery, this engaging museum presents the sweep of local history, from the Bronze Age all the…

7. Blackheads House

1.06 MILES

Built in 1344 as a veritable fraternity house for the Blackheads guild of unmarried German merchants, the original house was bombed in 1941 and flattened…

8. Statue of St Roland

1.07 MILES

A statue of St Roland, the city’s patron, takes pride of place on the square in front of the town hall.