St. John's Church

Riga, Latvia

St. John's Church was built in the 13th century, probably between 1234-1297. It was originally home of the Dominican monks, but over the centuries fell into the possession of the Lutherans. It has also served as an arsenal for the city.

The most notable features of this unheralded church are the impressive 15th century sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul which adorn the the 18th century altar. According the legend two monks who were bricked to the southern wall during the construction. They spent all their life long and were fed trough a window from the outside.

References:
  • Robin McKelvie, Jenny McKelvie. Thomas Cook Traveller Guides Latvia
  • rigalatvia.net

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Address

Skarnu iela 24, Riga, Latvia
See all sites in Riga

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Religious sites in Latvia
Historical period: State of the Teutonic Order (Latvia)

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Mateusz Adamkiewicz * Матэвуш Адамкевіч (11 months ago)
A beautiful lutheran church offering a vast range of concerts on different occasions. Not too big and a little subdued by the nearby church of St. Peter’s but just as beautiful inside.
nikholas006 (2 years ago)
5 Star just for la view on the tower ? magnificent
david howells (2 years ago)
Simple but elegant church set in the middle of Old Riga. Nice setting and a lovely part of town.
Lorna O. Davison (5 years ago)
A simple, yet elegant church with organ of course. Purchased a ticket to hear, Olga Pjatigorska a soprano sing Ave Maria accompanied by organist Jolanta Barinska. 15 Euro per person. Cash only accepted. The concerts begins at 19:00. Tickets are available at the door from 18:00 on.
TheRin30 (6 years ago)
Церковь считается старейшей действующей как в Риге, так и на территории всей Латвии. Очень интересен ребристый готический потолок, который не типичен для Прибалтики. Но самое главное в церкви - акустика и орган. Именно поэтому она стала местом проведения концертов, которые проходят достаточно регулярно. Непередаваемые ощущения от звука!
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