Details
Founded: 13th centuryCategory: Religious sites in Latvia
Historical period: State of the Teutonic Order (Latvia)
Rating
4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)
User Reviews
Bee (9 months ago)
Cool church, entry based on donation. Not loads inside but a very funky roof.
Cool church, entry based on donation. Not loads inside but a very funky roof.
Mikko Sysikaski (14 months ago)
Riga boasts a wealth of historical churches, and St. John's Church initially sparked my interest with its 13th-century Gothic architecture. However, my anticipation quickly turned to disappointment upon arrival. Instead of open doors inviting reflection and exploration, I was met with a €3 entrance fee enforced by a ticketing booth blocking the entrance. This felt like a stark contrast to the spirit of open access one expects from a place of worship. Adding to my frustration, several Google Maps reviews mention similar experiences, with some visitors reporting attempts by staff to deny the existence of an entrance fee altogether. While the need for churches to maintain their structures is undeniable, such practices cast a shadow on the experience for potential visitors. Ultimately, the decision of whether to pay the fee rests with you. However, Riga offers a wealth of beautiful and welcoming churches to explore, making St. John's a location that some travelers might choose to skip. Thankfully, Riga offers numerous alternatives and these other churches prioritize inclusivity and spiritual connection, making them a much more fulfilling experience for travelers seeking to connect with Riga's rich religious heritage.
Riga boasts a wealth of historical churches, and St. John's Church initially sparked my interest with its 13th-century Gothic architecture. However, my anticipation quickly turned to disappointment upon arrival. Instead of open doors inviting reflection and exploration, I was met with a €3 entrance fee enforced by a ticketing booth blocking the entrance. This felt like a stark contrast to the spirit of open access one expects from a place of worship. Adding to my frustration, several Google Maps reviews mention similar experiences, with some visitors reporting attempts by staff to deny the existence of an entrance fee altogether. While the need for churches to maintain their structures is undeniable, such practices cast a shadow on the experience for potential visitors. Ultimately, the decision of whether to pay the fee rests with you. However, Riga offers a wealth of beautiful and welcoming churches to explore, making St. John's a location that some travelers might choose to skip. Thankfully, Riga offers numerous alternatives and these other churches prioritize inclusivity and spiritual connection, making them a much more fulfilling experience for travelers seeking to connect with Riga's rich religious heritage.
Reena FD (14 months ago)
Simplicity at it's best. I visited on Easter Monday, but i was not sure if I was allowed to enter because there was someone at the altar. Sorry, i realized it only after i saw the video i took. Anyways, I was able to pray peacefully. Thanks be to God! Definitely No entrance fee, and it's not written anywhere else.
Simplicity at it's best. I visited on Easter Monday, but i was not sure if I was allowed to enter because there was someone at the altar. Sorry, i realized it only after i saw the video i took. Anyways, I was able to pray peacefully. Thanks be to God! Definitely No entrance fee, and it's not written anywhere else.
Ohayō Phil (15 months ago)
Sad that churches now charge for “entrance fee” 3euros. Shouldn’t it be open to the public? I’ve seen so many beautiful and free entrance churches. Please don’t support greedy “churches” like these Edit: please don’t deny it. The entrance to your church door is blocked and there are tickets prices by the door before you can enter. This is not a form of “donation”. Aren’t religious people supposed to be honest and true? Why do you need to lie?
Sad that churches now charge for “entrance fee” 3euros. Shouldn’t it be open to the public? I’ve seen so many beautiful and free entrance churches. Please don’t support greedy “churches” like these Edit: please don’t deny it. The entrance to your church door is blocked and there are tickets prices by the door before you can enter. This is not a form of “donation”. Aren’t religious people supposed to be honest and true? Why do you need to lie?
KC Mitch (2 years ago)
Beautiful. Amazing and a must. So much to see when you enter the Lutheran church. Take ur time and enjoy everything
Beautiful. Amazing and a must. So much to see when you enter the Lutheran church. Take ur time and enjoy everything
