Baltic Capitals-Latvia episode 12 part c

Second home hosted lunch by Diana and her husband. The food was fabulous! Really liking the Latvian cuisine. She is an artist. Was fun to see some of her creations. Back to Riga for our last night. On to Tallinn Estonia tomorrow, on the way a moment of flying like Superman. Keep following the blog!

Baltic Capitals- Latvia episode 12 part b

Then our group split into two groups for a second home visit and meal. We walked through a very quaint little village. In the cliffs little caves are carved for food storage. Apples get their own cave. Other foods are potatoes, mushrooms and so much more.

Baltic Capitals-Latvia episode 12 part a

Early day, up and at 'em. Today we set out into the country from the city of Riga for a little immersion into the life of a Latvian. Our first stop was to the Ligatnes home. Three generations have lived here. The original section of the home was built in 1903. We were regaled with much of the history of this family from 1903 to date, along with an absolutely fabulous breakfast. Oh, wait, there's more... on the property, they run two businesses. One a wood shop making cooking utensils and a winery & distillery. We had a chance to visit both. Of course there was shopping at the end. A little vodka and brandy will hopefully make it back to the Twin Cities... On to a spontaneous adventure, impromptu school visit. Here in Latvia the first day of school is a big deal. The children come to school many with their parent and a bouquet of flowers. Then an opening ceremony complete with lots of singing. The 12th graders escort in the first graders. It was pretty fun to see.

Baltic Capitals- Latvia episode 11 part d

Having fun in Riga. Lunch and an adult beverage with flat Brenda. The Freedom Monument to celebrate their independence declared in 8/21/91.

Baltic Capitals - Latvia episode 11 part c

More scenes of Riga.

Baltic Capitals-Latvia episode 11 part b

Scenes of Riga. 13th century was built by the crusaders, St Peters church built in 1209 (if you can touch all 4 sculptures, you will have good luck—none of us were tall enough, drat), St John Church and the House of Blackheads. The House was constructed in the 14th century to house unmarried merchants. It was the most prestigious building in the city up until WWII. It was severely damaged and pillaged during the war. 1999 restoration was completed, now it is a precise replica of the original building.

Baltic Capitals- Latvia episode 11 part a

Riga! Capital city if Latvia. Riga is a major sea trade port on the Baltic coast. But did you know is a thriving cultural center as well, home to numerous museums, concert halls, and churches. The old town is a substantial UNESCO world heritage site. This city was established in 1201. Crusaders came and built many of the structures still standing today. What we found that is striking is the architecture. Art Nouveau and Jugenstil facades on nearly every structure. Truly one of the most fascinating cities we have visited to date. Our day started with a city tour, leaving our hotel by trolley to the Central Market. The market is located in a campus of what was originally 5 terminal buildings designed for zeppelins. Can safely say, never been in housing for a zeppelin before. That was a short lived mode of transportation...