Riga Castle is not only one of the city’s most important historic landmarks but also the official residence of the President of Latvia. At the same time, a part of the castle houses the Latvian National Museum of History, creating a unique combination of political significance and cultural heritage.
Located along the banks of the Daugava River, the castle has served many roles over the centuries. The museum has been based here since 1920 and is currently located in a restored wing of the castle’s oldest section, with an entrance from Daugavas gāte.
“Streaming Time” exhibition
“Streaming Time”, the museum’s first new exhibition after reopening, presents Latvia’s history through more than 1,500 artefacts combined with interactive and digital elements. The display takes visitors on a journey through different periods, showing how people have lived, worked and formed communities over time.
Rather than focusing only on major events, the exhibition explores the flow of time and the idea of belonging through the many communities to which individuals have belonged - ethnic groups, townspeople, church congregations, social class, and others.
The exhibition raises timeless questions about identity, values and connection: where do we belong, and what unites us as a society? By linking past and present, it encourages visitors to reflect on how these ideas have evolved through history.
Visitor experience
For tourists, the museum offers a well-balanced experience, combining authentic historical objects with contemporary storytelling and multimedia displays, all set within the impressive surroundings of Riga Castle.
Why visit
The Latvian National Museum of History offers one of the most complete insights into the story of Latvia, from ancient times to the present day. Located in Riga Castle, it combines a historic setting with modern exhibitions, making it a rewarding stop for visitors interested in culture, identity and heritage.
The museum presents a wide range of artefacts, from archaeological finds to everyday objects, helping visitors understand how people lived, worked and formed communities over thousands of years. Interactive displays and contemporary storytelling make the experience engaging for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Historical highlight
The museum is housed in Riga Castle, one of the most significant landmarks in Latvia’s history. Originally built in the 14th century as a fortress for the Livonian Order, the castle has served as a residence for rulers, governors and state authorities over the centuries. Today, it is also the official residence of the President of Latvia, making it a place of both historical and political importance.
How to get there
The museum is located at Riga Castle on the banks of the Daugava River, on the edge of the Old Town. It can be easily reached on foot from the city centre in around 10-15 minutes. The public transport stop “Nacionālais teātris” is also nearby, with tram, bus and trolleybus connections across the city.
