Brivibas Piemineklis (Freedom Monument), Riga (must see)

The Freedom Monument commemorates the soldiers who fell during the Latvian War of Independence of 1918–1920. Unveiled in 1935, the monument embodies Latvia’s national values and stands as a powerful symbol of the country’s struggle for independence. It remains a focal point for important public gatherings and national commemorations in Riga today. As you walk along the broad, pedestrian-friendly Freedom Boulevard, you won’t miss the soaring monument rising above Freedom Square.

Remarkably, the monument survived almost 50 years of Soviet rule, in part because of its high artistic value. On 14 June 1987, around 5,000 people gathered at the monument to lay flowers in remembrance of the victims of Soviet deportations. This peaceful demonstration helped revive Latvia’s independence movement, which ultimately culminated in the restoration of the country’s independence in 1991.

Before taking a closer look at the monument, be mindful of the ceremonial Guard of Honour standing watch at the foot of the granite steps.

The structure itself consists of several levels decorated with 13 sculptural groups and reliefs, each representing aspects of Latvian history, culture and national identity. Among them are representations of Latvian Riflemen, singers, scholars, workers, the Guardians of the Fatherland and the Family. Crowning the monument is a bronze figure of a woman holding three golden stars above her head. Affectionately known as Milda, she represents freedom, while the three stars traditionally symbolise Latvia’s historical regions of Kurzeme, Vidzeme and Latgale.

With a total height of 42 metres (or 138 feet), the Freedom Monument is visible from many parts of central Riga and serves as a useful landmark for visitors navigating between the Old Town and the city’s surrounding districts.