Latvian Photography Museum, Riga

The Latvian Photography Museum is missioned to discover, display and preserve the notable photographic images of the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum was set up in 1993 by historian Peteris Korsaks, whose personal exposition, “Development of Photography in Latvia. 1839 – 1940”, forms part of the museum’s permanent collection. The latter features negatives, equipment, pictures and documents outline the evolution of photography. The photos, hanged on the wall, capture important moments in the Latvian history, such as the 1905 Revolution and World War II. Pictures of common people at work, doing their daily chores, are also on display. As well, the museum features an authentic, painted background that was used in Martins Luste’s photo studio in the town of Mazsalaca at the turn of the 20th century. The permanent exhibition occupies the second floor of the building, while the third one is used for temporary exhibits. Visitors, interested in finding out more about the displayed items, can ask the museum staff. Lectures and guided tours are also available.

Housed in a 16th century building, the museum plays a dual role - charting the development of the Latvian photography and recounting the country’s history in recent centuries, - and, as such, deserves a high place on the list of must-sees in Riga.