I moved to Latvia in 2015 because of its rich musical tradition, its high standards for performance, and the passion of its people for choral music
The latest fiction film by Viesturs Kairišs, the Chronicles of Melanie ("Melānijas hronika"), which will have its Latvian release from November 1, will have the International premiere at the biggest Nordic and Baltic film festival, Tallinn Black Nights, where it has been selected as one of 12 films for the official competition.
That catchphrase 'Latvia - best enjoyed slowly' can certainly be applied to me!
My first of several visits to the country was some thirty-five years ago at the beginning of the 1980's. During my latest visit in May this year I was particularly aware of how important my long and slowly unfolding experience of the country over the years has been. It has so greatly enriched both my enjoyment and my ever increasing affection and respect for a fascinating destination that is still strangely one of Europe's best-kept secrets.
For most of the world, the 8th of May is the day of the defeat of Nazism and commemoration of victims of World War II.
Brīvības piemineklis - the Freedom Monument - is one of the most important landmarks and symbols of Latvian independence and statehood.
The 95th anniversary of the de iure recognition of the Republic of Latvia, otherwise known as “Diplomats Day” is celebrated on 26 January. To commemorate the occasion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organised several events.
To honour the 25th anniversary of the Barricades 1991, the Saeima is publishing a compilation of the press releases distributed to foreign media during the Barricades by the Supreme Council, which was the legislature in Latvia at the time.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Barricades – a non-violent protest campaign which took place in Riga and several other towns across Latvia in January, 1991.
About 12,000 years ago, in the late ice age, reindeer were living in Latvia too.
A virtual museum in Latvia – “Esi Pats” (Be Yourself) - opened a brand new website, telling the stories of Latvian child deportees to Siberia during the Second World War.