Grodziec Castle was built first time in the 13th century and the oldest existing brick structure dates from the 15th century. In the 16-17th centuries it was rebuilt as a Renaissance style residence. The castle is surrounded by English Garden. Despite of wars Grodziec Castle is well-preserved.
House of the Blackheads (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, a guild for unmarried German merchants in Riga. Major works were done in the years 1580 and 1886, adding most of the ornaments.
The structure was bombed to a ruin by the Germans June 28, 1941 and the remains demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999. Today the House of Blackheads serves as a museum and sometimes concert hall.