Art Nouveau

Beyond the thin park that was once the moat that enclosed Old Town Riga lies Centrs, the "new" 19th and 20th century extension to the city. Much of this area was built during the turn of the century a time when the art nouveau movement was sweeping across Europe. Riga embraced this style of design and architecture and, led by several wealthy families, built more than 750 art nouveau facades, the most of any city in the world! The fascinating "Quiet Center" is the heart of Art Nouveau Riga and is an incredible place to enjoy a different type of old town. The boys were so excited by all the art that they literally jumped for joy. Or, maybe that was just because we found a trampoline playground in the park...