The collection of red-roofed buildings along Torņa Street on the edge of Old Town Riga is known as Jacob’s Barracks. Originally built to house soldiers, the long complex has since been transformed into a lively stretch filled with cafés, bars, beauty salons, small shops and other businesses. It’s a pleasant place for a stroll, blending historic military architecture with modern urban life just steps from the city’s medieval streets.
The barracks were built in the 18th century at the base of the city fortifications and since then they have been restored several times. From the very beginning until the 1990s the premises were used by various armies until the last restoration in 1997.
Now the eye-catching buildings are significant features of Old Town Riga; they can be regarded as a border between the city's history and contemporary times. Today the premises host various intimate restaurants, bars and cafes, beauty salons, travel agencies, and souvenir shops.
It’s also important to note that Jacob's Barracks face the historic Powder Tower and Swedish Gate on the other side of Torņa Street.
Why visit
Jacob’s Barracks form one of the longest historic building complexes in Riga’s Old Town and offer a glimpse into the city’s military past within a calm, pedestrian-friendly setting. Today, the former barracks house cafés, small shops, offices, and cultural spaces, making the area a pleasant place to take a break while sightseeing.
Set near green parkland and close to major landmarks, the complex provides a quieter contrast to the busier Old Town streets. Its uniform façades, arched doorways, and orderly layout reflect the practical purpose for which the buildings were created, while their modern uses give the quarter a lively, everyday atmosphere.
Historical highlight
Jacob’s Barracks were built in the late 17th century as accommodation for soldiers stationed in Riga during its time as a fortified city. The long row of identical buildings was designed for efficiency, lining what was once part of the city’s defensive zone near the ramparts.
Over the centuries, as Riga expanded and fortifications disappeared, the barracks lost their military role and were gradually adapted for civilian use. Careful restoration preserved the character of their exterior, allowing the complex to survive as one of the Old Town’s most distinctive historical ensembles.
How to get there
Jacob’s Barracks are located on Torņa Street at the northern edge of Riga’s Old Town, close to Riga Castle and the city canal parks. Public transport stops nearby, and taxis can drop you within a short walk of the site.