Latvian War Museum
About This Museum
You might not expect to find a cannonball still lodged in the wall of a medieval tower, but that's just one of the raw, tangible details at the Latvian War Museum. It's a place where history feels immediate, housed within the thick, ancient stones of the Powder Tower. The journey through its circular floors traces Latvia's complex military story from tribal times to the modern era. It’s less a sterile display of artifacts and more a conversation with the past, all packed into a remarkable piece of Rīga's original fortifications.
Collection Highlights
Look for the intricately decorated ceremonial swords of the Livonian Order and the personal medals and letters from soldiers in the Latvian Riflemen regiments. The collection powerfully contrasts these grand symbols of power with intimate, human stories from the front lines.
Visitor Information
Best of all, this incredible dive into history won't cost you a single euro—it's completely free to explore. Just head to Smilšu iela 20 and find that distinctive, hulking brick tower.
Architecture & Building
The museum is located in Rīga's iconic Powder Tower, a massive, cylindrical brick structure that began as part of the city's 14th-century defensive walls. Its current form, complete with those characteristic fortress-like turrets on top, is largely from a 17th-century rebuild.
Contact & Location
Address: Latvijas kara muzejs, 20, Smilšu iela, Vecrīga, Latgales apkaime, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvija
Phone: +371 67 228 147
Website: Visit Website
