It is very close, and very distant at the same time. Only 300 km apart, but with different history, religion, architecture, way of doing things, weather, etc. The list is endless, but let’s start with architecture.
Tell me who built your old town
In the case of Riga, and even Latvia in general, it was mostly the Livonian (German) order, which in the beginning of 13th century built what we now call Riga’s old town, with its Gothic cathedrals and churches.
The Order expanded its territory and one of the most beautiful examples of its military architecture is now the Bauska castle, which is less than one hour drive from Riga, built by the Order in the 15th century, later destroyed by Swedes and Russians. What we can find now standing in Bauska is the Palace, rebuilt by a German Prince at the end of the 19th century, standing next to the ruins of the old castle.
And there is always more
Before going to Baroque rich Vilnius, don’t miss the grand Rundale palace, built in the 18th century by the German Duke Biron and … try not to upset locals by saing B[:ai]ron, the English version, instead of German B[:i]ron. And to enjoy French gardens behind the Palace filled with thousands of roses … from England.
By the way, if you are still hungry for discoveries, you can continue your journey southwards by taking a train from Vilnius to Krakow via Warsaw, to discover more of Gothics, Baroque and other styles of architecture. This railway line is new, the train goes every day and it already became popular among local people and also guests. Good luck!