The Baltic States include the nations of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. These nations were once part of the Soviet Union but are now independent states. Riga, the capital of Latvia, is one of the most interesting cities in this region located north of Poland and south of Finland.
Riga is a thoroughly modern city which has managed nevertheless to embrace and celebrate the glories of its past. Riga possesses the 13th tallest television tower in the world; this structure is one of the tallest buildings in the European Union.
At the same time, Riga maintains ties to its historic past and serves as a repository of much European culture from outside its borders as well. The Latvian National Opera, for example, was founded in 1918 and is still in operation today; the theatre’s repertoire includes opera masterpieces from across the continent of Europe. The National Opera also houses the nation’s most significant ballet troupe.
The Latvian National Theatre, founded in 1919, is one of the biggest theatres in the nation. It specialises in preserving the theatrical traditions to be found in the Latvian school of drama. The Riga Russian Theatre, established in 1883, features classical plays and includes works from Russian playwrights and experimental works from other foreign playwrights.
Visitors who prefer a bit more humour will enjoy the Latvian State Puppet Theatre in Riga, which has been presenting shows for children and adults since 1944. Modern plays are performed in the New Riga Theatre, which opened in 1992.
