Daugavpils Theatre

About

Daugavpils Theatre is one of Latvia’s oldest cultural institutions and a defining landmark of the city’s artistic life. Founded in 1857, it began as a Russian‑language stage serving the garrison town, later expanding its repertoire as Daugavpils grew into a multicultural centre. Its historic building on Rīgas Street, rebuilt several times after fires and wartime damage, now blends 19th‑century elegance with modern theatrical facilities. A unique feature of the theatre is its multilingual tradition: today it stages productions in Latvian, Russian, and sometimes Latgalian, reflecting the region’s diverse identity. Over the decades it has nurtured generations of actors and directors, hosted touring ensembles, and remained a key venue for festivals and premieres. The theatre’s intimate halls and richly ornamented interiors create a warm atmosphere that draws audiences from across Latgale. As a living symbol of the city’s cultural resilience, Daugavpils Theatre continues to balance classic drama with contemporary works, keeping its long heritage vibrant and relevant.

Daugavpils Latvia
Daugavpils Theatre
Location

Daugavpils Theatre is a historic cultural venue in the very heart of Daugavpils, Latvia, set on Rīgas Street within the large multifunctional Unity House building that dominates the central square. As one of the oldest professional theatres in the country, it stages performances in several languages and is a key meeting point for local cultural life. Right next to the theatre lies Vienības laukums (Unity Square), a spacious central square surrounded by early 20th‑century architecture, cafés and shops, ideal for a walk before or after a performance. Just a short stroll away you can visit the Šmakovka Museum, which tells the story of Latgale’s traditional strong drink using modern interactive exhibits. Within easy walking distance are several churches on the so‑called Church Hill, where different denominations stand side by side and create a striking skyline. A bit further, but still close to the centre, you will find the Latgale Zoo and the historic streets leading towards Daugavpils Fortress and the Mark Rothko Art Centre, perfect options to round off a cultural day in the city.

Rotko muzejs Rotko muzejs Museum Daugavpils Local History and Art Museum Daugavpils Local History and Art Museum Museum Shmakovka Museum Shmakovka Museum Museum Museum of the World War I “Pie Komendanta” Museum of the World War I “Pie Komendanta” Museum Medicīnas izstāde ar kontracepcijas ekspozīciju Medicīnas izstāde ar kontracepcijas ekspozīciju Museum Ceramic Laboratory Ceramic Laboratory Museum Daugavpils Fortress Daugavpils Fortress Fortress Martin Luther Cathedral Martin Luther Cathedral Church Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Boris and Gleb Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Boris and Gleb Church Dubrovin Park Dubrovin Park Park Latgale Zoo Latgale Zoo Zoo Inženieru arsenāls Inženieru arsenāls Historical Landmark Ozero Strop Ozero Strop Lake