Independence Day of Latvia

On November 18, 1918, the Act of Independence was proclaimed in Riga.On November 18, 1918, the “Act of Independence” was proclaimed in Riga, according to which Latvia became an independent state. In Soviet times, independence was lost. On August 21, 1991, the parliament decided to restore Latvia’s pre-war statehood.

The history of Latvia is such that this day is of great importance for the Latvian people. For the first time in history, Latvia became an independent parliamentary republic.

Symbol of freedom

The symbol of Latvia’s independence was undoubtedly the Freedom Monument in Riga. It was erected near the city canal on the border of the Old and New Town from 1931 to 1935 on the donations of the people. Previously on this place stood the equestrian monument of Peter I.

The monument was sculpted by Latvian sculptor Karlis Zale. The sculptural groups at the base of the monument illustrate some important events in the history of Latvia, and the monument is crowned with the image of Freedom - a female figure symbolizing the idea of the sovereignty of Latvia.

On this day, flags with red, white and red symbols are hung.

The holiday ends with a grand salute on the Embankment on November 11 of the Daugava River. It is best viewed from the Bastion Hill or the Cable Bridge.