Alberta Street is regarded as Riga’s Art Nouveau gem, since it is full of splendid historical Art Nouveau-style buildings from one end to the other. The area was erected in a short period of time – from 1901 to 1908, each of the buildings standing alone as an inimitable 20th century architectural achievement. Eight buildings are now recognised as architectural monuments of national significance. According to legend, Riga was founded by Bishop Albert; therefore, one of the most beautiful Riga’s streets was named after him. Alberta Street has embodied architects’ greatest ideas. The architectural monuments are buildings at 2, 2a, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12 and 13 Alberta Street, created by Mikhail Eisenstein (No. 2;2A;4;6;8), Paul Mandelstam (No. 10) and Konstantīns Pēkšēns (No. 12).
The surrounding area also features great examples of Art Nouveau style. The buildings are decorated with sculptures, balconies, columns, and other elements characteristic to this style. Outstanding pieces of art can be also found in the interior. More information on the Art Nouveau is available at the Riga Art Nouveau Museum, which opened on Alberta Street in 2009.
Why visit
Alberta Street is one of the most striking places where to experience Riga’s Art Nouveau heritage up close. A walk here feels like stepping into an open-air gallery of bold facades, sculpted figures, curved lines, and ornate details. The street is quiet, elegant, and easy to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect for architecture lovers, photographers, or anyone who enjoys simply wandering and taking in the atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby Riga Art Nouveau Museum to gain a deeper sense of how people lived during the early 20th century, when this artistic movement flourished.
Historical highlight
The buildings on Alberta Street were constructed in the early 1900s, during a period when Riga was expanding rapidly and the Art Nouveau style was at its peak. Architects such as Mikhail Eisenstein and Konstantīns Pēkšēns brought their most imaginative ideas to life here, creating facades filled with expressive sculptures, elegant balconies, and symbolic motifs. Surprisingly, much of the street survived the 20th century intact, allowing today's visitors to experience original Art Nouveau craftsmanship and urban design as it was intended more than a century ago.
How to get there
Alberta Street is located in Riga’s Quiet Centre, just a short and pleasant walk from the Old Town. Many visitors choose to reach it on foot, especially when exploring nearby parks and boulevards. If you prefer public transport, several tram and bus routes stop close by, making it easy to access from anywhere in the city.