The so-called Swedish Gate is the only gate that remains standing today of what formerly used to be eight gates in total, leading people in and out of Riga's fortification walls.
Located at 11 Torņa street. Constructed in 1698 as a part of the Riga Wall to provide access to barracks outside the city wall. The gate was opened at sunrise and closed at sunset.
Why visit
The Swedish Gate is a must-see for those exploring Riga’s Old Town - it’s the only remaining gate from the city’s original medieval wall. Nestled along Torņa iela, the gate is not only a rare architectural survivor but also a place wrapped in local legend. One of the most famous tales speaks of a young woman who secretly fell in love with a Swedish soldier. When their romance was discovered, the soldier disappeared, and the woman was said to be bricked into the gate as punishment. Locals say her spirit still lingers, and that if you walk under the gate in silence, you may feel her presence. A stop here offers both historic charm and a brush with Riga’s folklore.
Historical highlight
The Swedish Gate was built during a time when Riga was under Swedish rule. Unlike many parts of the old city wall that were demolished over the centuries, this gate has stood the test of time. It was built to create a passage between the fortified inner city and the military quarters beyond the walls. Interestingly, it replaced an earlier defensive tower and was integrated directly into the surrounding buildings, giving it the discreet, tucked-away look it still has today.
How to get there
The Swedish Gate is located in Riga’s Old Town, just a few minutes’ walk from well-known landmarks like St. Peter’s Church and the House of the Blackheads. Tucked into one of the quieter corners of the historic centre, the gate is easy to reach by foot while exploring the cobbled streets.