Latvian Academy of Sciences

Riga, Latvia

The Academy of Sciences edifice was built after World War II, between 1951 and 1961, collecting the necessary financing from the newly established kolkhozes in Latvia and - as further expenses increased, collecting the finances as 'voluntary donations' deducted from the salaries of the Latvian rural population.

The building is decorated with several hammers and sickles as well as Latvian folk ornaments and motifs. The spire originally was decorated with a wreath and a five pointed star, which was removed after Latvia regained independence in 1991. Being 108 metres tall, it was the first skyscraper in the republic and was the tallest building until the construction of the Swedbank Headquarters in Latvia.

The building, designed by Osvalds Tīlmanis, Vaidelotis Apsītis, and Kārlis Plūksne, is a cousin to similar Stalin-era skyscrapers, which were representative of what became known as Stalinist architecture (sometimes referred to as Socialist Classicism). The architecture of the skyscraper resembles many others built in the Soviet Union at the time, most notably the main building of Moscow State University. Local nicknames for this building include Stalin's birthday cake and the Kremlin.

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Address

Elijas iela 2-6, Riga, Latvia
See all sites in Riga

Details

Founded: 1951-1961
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Latvia
Historical period: Soviet Era (Latvia)

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Vojta Netrh (4 months ago)
Very nice architecture and also nice view on the city. Big positive is that it is opened from morning to late evening, so you can go here whenever you want. Be careful, tickets can only be paid by cash.
Povilas Godliauskas (4 months ago)
Amazing view of the beautiful Riga! If you are visiting for the first time, make sure to go here and take in the views (pictures only tell a story, but they don't convey the real feeling). Of course, don't forget to visit the Central Market nearby.
Evgeniya Prikhodko (6 months ago)
The building and the concierge lady downstairs smell of former USSR through and through (believe me, I was born in 1986) but still the ticket is just 6 Euros and you get to appreciate great views for a price of one craft beer. Imo it's worth it. Check for yourself!
Pscl (9 months ago)
Entry is 6€ per person, the view from the observation deck is great. You can view all of Riga and also have a great view of the tv tower and the central market. There is a toilet on the top as well.
Tomás Fonseca (10 months ago)
Definitely the best place in Riga to glimpse the city from the top. Tickets cost 6€ (cash only) and you can buy it at the entrance. It gives a 360 degrees view of the city and its surroundings and you can stay there as long as you want. The facade of the building is astonishing and the place is very close to the central market, so a must-do detour if you visit the market.
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