Art Nouveau Buildings Tours

House of the Blackheads - Riga - Latvia

Nikon D750 - ISO 199 - Tamron SP15-30mm lens f11 - 20mm - f/13 1/50 sec

House of the Blackheads -Latvian: 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. It was founded in the 13th century as a gentlemen’s club for wealthy single merchants and their journeymen. In 1477 they rented the Great Guild’s New Hall, which was housed in what is now the Blackheads House and in 1773, when the Great Guild moved premises, they bought it. The society’s members were mainly German, but there were also English, Scottish, Dutch, Swedish and Norwegian members.

The society’s not so politically correct name originated from one of their patron saints; St Maurice was supposedly a black African Christian Roman commander who died as martyr after refusing to kill fellow Christians. St Maurice’s head was depicted on the Blackheads coat of arms, thus giving them their name.

Unfortunately, during World War II, the building was destroyed, along with almost all of the Town Hall Square and nearby St Peter’s church tower. The remains were demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999 by Valērij Kargin the president of Parex Bank. The reconstruction was inspired by an engraving in the portal which read “Should you ever see me falling, raise me up, it’s your calling”.

The bear depicted on the photo is one of the “United Buddy Bears” who spent the summer of 2018 in Riga. They stand together “hand in hand”, symbolising the future vision of a peaceful world.

Did you know that the first documented use of a decorated tree during winter celebration was recorded in 1510 in Riga? Take a look to my story to see one of the first christmas tree decoration.

Riga's old town is perhaps not really a hidden gem, but it's very nice to walk around in none the less (so much artdeco!)

Livu square
Old Town of Riga, Latvia - June 2017

Visit Art Nouveau Buildings

Activities

Browse tours and tickets to explore Art Nouveau Buildings

Tours & day trips

See all 153 activities

Group Day trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 22 activities

Riga: Beer or Cider Bike Tour

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

See all 21 activities

Group Day trip to Rundale Palace, Hill of Crosses & Bauska Castle

Free cancellation available

Spa & wellness

See all 8 activities

Riga Aquapark Day

Classes & workshops

See all 8 activities

Private Chocolate Masterclass in Old Town of Riga

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Latvian attraction - house of the Blackheads, sculpture of Saint Roland and Saint Peters Church in old city Riga, Latvia, Shutterstock ID 309897689, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: ,

Cathedral Square

You can learn about the history of Riga when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.

Riga Cathedral

After visiting Riga Cathedral, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Riga. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Town Hall

Town Hall is just one of the places to see in Riga, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the stunning cathedral and shops in this culturally rich area.

Three Brothers

You can learn about the history of Riga with a visit to Three Brothers. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

European Christmas market in winter Riga in Latvia. Winter. Late at evening. Street and holiday fair in European city Advent Decoration with Crafts Items on Bazaar

Riga Christmas Market

During your trip to Riga, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Riga Christmas Market. Discover the acclaimed art scene and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

St. Peter's Church

Riga's tallest church is dedicated to the city’s patron saint and is where you can see new artworks, watch a concert and enjoy great views of the Latvian capital.

Best Lodging Options Near Art Nouveau Buildings

Check availability on hotels close to Art Nouveau Buildings

Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel

11. Novembra Krastmala, 33 Riga

Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

Valnu street 49 Riga

Konventa Sēta Hotel Keystone Collection

Kaleju Str 9/11 Riga

Neiburgs Hotel

Jauniela 25/27 Riga

Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga

55 Elizabetes Street Riga

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

Aspazijas Boulevard 22 Riga

Pullman Riga Old Town (Renovated 2025)

24 Jekaba Street Riga

Grand Palace Hotel – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Pils Street 12 Riga

See all 580 properties in Art Nouveau Buildings

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.