Political Overview 

Latvia is a parliamentary republic with its capital in Riga, where the Saeima (unicameral parliament) and the President’s official residence are located. Since regaining independence in 1991, Latvia has pursued membership in the European Union and NATO both achieved in 2004 cementing its place in Western political and security structures. Despite its relatively small size, Latvia plays an active role in Baltic cooperation and regional initiatives such as the Baltic Assembly, while Riga, as the seat of government, has become a focal point for diplomatic missions and international summits.

Cultural Heritage and Identity

Latvia’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its folk traditions, from intricate mittens and weaving to the melodious Song and Dance Festival, held every five years in Riga’s Mežaparks and recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The capital city itself is a cultural magnet: Riga’s Art Nouveau district and its cobblestone Old Town another UNESCO World Heritage Site draw history and architecture enthusiasts alike. Beyond the city, regions such as Jūrmala, famed for its white-sand beaches and Jugendstil villas, showcase the country’s blend of seaside leisure and historic charm.

Geographical Landscape, Area and Climate

Spanning roughly 64,600 km², Latvia stretches from the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea in the west to the forested lowlands and gently rolling hills of Vidzeme and Latgale in the east. One of the most-visited natural attractions is Gauja National Park, known as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” where sandstone cliffs, river valleys, and medieval castles attract hikers and canoeists year-round. The climate is temperate warm summers averaging 17 °C in July and cold winters dipping to around –6 °C in January making Riga’s parks lush in summer and the countryside a snowy wonderland in winter.