Latvian National Opera

These six imposing columns stand opposite the Latvian National Opera, right along the Riga Canal. This neoclassical building, inaugurated in 1863 as the municipal theatre, is one of the great cultural symbols of the Latvian capital. Destroyed by fire in 1882, it was rebuilt a few years later while preserving its original style, and then fully modernised in the 90s. Since the creation of the Latvian National Opera in 1918, this venue has become the heart of the country’s musical life, hosting operas, ballets, and symphonic concerts. Several world-renowned Latvian artists, such as dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and conductor Andris Nelsons, have made their debut or performed here, and even before that, some great names worked here, including a very well-known musician… can you guess who it was? I’m sure the name Richard Wagner sounds familiar. He held the position of conductor here from 1837 to 1839, and during this period he introduced something that has since become the norm: conducting the orchestra with his back to the audience in order to better face the musicians. Despite financial difficulties, personal tensions, and a certain artistic frustration, these years proved decisive for his artistic career and helped shape the composer he would become. With its main hall of nearly one thousand seats, a varied programme, and tickets that are often more affordable than in other European capitals, the opera remains a lively venue today and a must-visit for any culture enthusiast.