House of the Blackheads - Riga - Latvia

Nikon D750 - ISO 199 - Tamron SP15-30mm lens f11 - 20mm - f/13 1/50 sec

House of the Blackheads -Latvian: Melngalvju nams- is a building situated in the old town of Riga.

The original building was erected during the first third of the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads. It was founded in the 13th century as a gentlemen’s club for wealthy single merchants and their journeymen. In 1477 they rented the Great Guild’s New Hall, which was housed in what is now the Blackheads House and in 1773, when the Great Guild moved premises, they bought it. The society’s members were mainly German, but there were also English, Scottish, Dutch, Swedish and Norwegian members.

The society’s not so politically correct name originated from one of their patron saints; St Maurice was supposedly a black African Christian Roman commander who died as martyr after refusing to kill fellow Christians. St Maurice’s head was depicted on the Blackheads coat of arms, thus giving them their name.

Unfortunately, during World War II, the building was destroyed, along with almost all of the Town Hall Square and nearby St Peter’s church tower. The remains were demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999 by Valērij Kargin the president of Parex Bank. The reconstruction was inspired by an engraving in the portal which read “Should you ever see me falling, raise me up, it’s your calling”.

The bear depicted on the photo is one of the “United Buddy Bears” who spent the summer of 2018 in Riga. They stand together “hand in hand”, symbolising the future vision of a peaceful world.

Did you know that the first documented use of a decorated tree during winter celebration was recorded in 1510 in Riga? Take a look to my story to see one of the first christmas tree decoration.

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Top Art Nouveau Buildings Hotel Reviews

Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"A spacious room and great menu choice at breakfast!"

Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

10/10 Excellent

"Really easy to find from the efficient and regular Airport bus into the city. We arrived way before check-in time but the very busy young lady on reception checked us in and let us leave our bags until the appropriate time. Our room was on the 6th floor and very quiet from noise inside or outside the hotel. The room was very simple laid out with everything that we needed and more. Both the sleeping and bathroom areas were very clean. Breakfast had a good variety of food types hot and cold,my only issue being a vegan, was that there wasn't such a choice for my dietary requirements. A couple of things looked like they would be vegan but were not. Allergens were clearly marked on the labels for the food themselves. Almond milk was provided. A separate area for gluten-free. My husband who is vegetarian love to breakfast. Breakfast staff were always busy and very efficient. We used the spa both days that we were staying. The first day a Friday, was less busy than the Saturday. We very much enjoyed the sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. I would suggest you book the spa before arrival so not to be disappointed if it's too full to accommodate you. We very much enjoyed staying at this hotel and would recommend it to anyone and everyone."

Hotels near other Art Nouveau Buildings attractions

Latvian attraction - house of the Blackheads, sculpture of Saint Roland and Saint Peters Church in old city Riga, Latvia, Shutterstock ID 309897689, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: ,

Cathedral Square

4.2/5 (71 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Riga with a trip to Cathedral Square. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

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Riga Cathedral

4.2/5 (1,036 reviews)

After visiting Riga Cathedral, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Riga. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Art Nouveau Buildings?

Art Nouveau Buildings is located in a historic area of Riga known for its stunning cathedral and popular art scene. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 295 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay near Art Nouveau Buildings?

Adjacent to Art Nouveau Buildings, Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a full-service spa and a restaurant. Other good choices close by include Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga and Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA.

How many hotels are there near Art Nouveau Buildings?

Expedia has 295 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Art Nouveau Buildings.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Art Nouveau Buildings, will I receive a refund?

Yes, the majority of hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals near Art Nouveau Buildings.

What can I see and do near Art Nouveau Buildings?

Occupation Museum, Powder Tower and Latvian Art Museum feature a variety of fascinating exhibits to see while you're in town. Small Guild Hall, Great Guild Hall and House of the Blackheads are well-known local landmarks worth a visit. You can catch a show at Latvian National Opera, Palladium and Latvian National Theatre.

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