The spooked black cats mounted on the turrets of this 1909 art nouveau–influenced building have become symbols of Rīga and Instagram stars. On any tour, you'll likely hear a tale about how the building's owner had the cats' butts aimed at the neighbouring Great Guild across the street after he was rejected for membership. The tale is completely false but thanks to guides in need of a good story it now has nine lives.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Latvian War Museum

0.09 MILES

The round Powder Tower dates back to the 14th century and is the only survivor of the 18 original towers that punctuated the old city walls. Nine Russian…

2. Jacob's Barracks

0.11 MILES

The entire north side of Torņa iela is flanked by the custard-coloured 18th-century Jacob’s Barracks, inhabited by cafes and boutiques.

3. Swedish Gate

0.12 MILES

Built into the city’s medieval walls in 1698 while the Swedes were in power, this arched gate is the only one left in Old Rīga. Set in the largest…

4. Art Museum Rīga Bourse

0.12 MILES

Rīga’s lavishly restored 1852 stock exchange building is a worthy showcase for the city's art treasures. The elaborate facade features a coterie of…

5. Museum of Decorative Arts & Design

0.13 MILES

The former St George’s Church houses a museum devoted to applied art from the art nouveau period to the present, including an impressive collection of…

6. Laima Clock

0.13 MILES

Built in 1924 as a gentle way to encourage Rīgans not to be late for work, this clock is a popular meeting place, carrying the branding of a popular…

7. Museum of the Barricades of 1991

0.14 MILES

Latvia's independence came after enormous struggles. One of the most remarkable stories involves the barricades built by thousands of citizens around…

8. Bastion Hill

0.15 MILES

A former tower hill, which used to be a part of the city wall, It is now the highest and arguably the most romantic feature of the park that runs along…