The capital city of Latvia is Riga, and it is not only the largest city within the Balkan states but also one of the largest in Europe. It has a long a dramatic history, as since its founding in1201 it has been ruled by various factions including Germany and the now defunct Soviet Union, evidence of both can be found in both the architecture of the city and in the dialects of the inhabitants.
Riga is very much a city where old meets new and the old parts of the city are a stark contrast to the modern industrial buildings which have sprung up since the re-unification of Europe following the fall of the iron curtain. Riga is rightly proud of its Balkan history and much is made of their traditions and folklore. Although the country is now predominantly Christian, the pagan traditions are still very much is evidence.
If your trip to Riga covers the dates of the summer solstice, 23-24 June, these traditions are very much in the fore as the people take to the streets and celebrate this event with the gusto that the Scots demonstrate at Hogmanay. Another pagan ritual takes place at the winter solstice, where a traditional Yule log is dragged around the old town to signify the arrival of winter and a festival including dancing and a bonfire follows.
Riga’s Ethnographical open air museum is a great place to visit to discover more about the folklore and traditions of this fascinating country with its long and colourful history.