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Three Brothers

About

The Three Brothers is a trio of historic residential buildings nestled on Mazā Pils Street in Riga’s Old Town, forming the oldest surviving complex of dwelling houses in the city. Each house reflects a different stage in architectural development from the 15th to the 17th century. The oldest, dating to around 1490, features Gothic and early Renaissance elements and once served as a combined workshop and living space. The middle house, built in 1646, showcases Dutch Mannerist influences and bears the inscription “Soli Deo Gloria” above its ornate portal. The youngest, from the late 17th century, is a narrow Baroque structure with a distinctive mask on its façade, believed to ward off evil spirits. Together, the Three Brothers illustrate the evolution of urban life and craftsmanship in Riga. Today, they house the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the National Cultural Heritage Administration, making them not only architectural treasures but also active guardians of Latvia’s built heritage.

Riga Latvia
Three Brothers
Location

The Three Brothers are located at 17, 19, and 21 Mazā Pils Street, in the very center of Riga’s Old Town, just steps from Dome Square and near the Latvian parliament building (Saeima). This unique ensemble is the oldest group of medieval residential buildings in Riga, each representing a different architectural period: the oldest dates to the late 15th century with Gothic and Renaissance elements, the middle to 1646 in Dutch Mannerism style, and the youngest from the late 17th century with Baroque features. Today, the Three Brothers house the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the State Inspection for Heritage Protection, making them not only architectural treasures but also cultural institutions open to visitors. Nearby, you can easily explore Dome Square, Riga Cathedral, the charming streets of Old Town, and other historic landmarks, as well as enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of surrounding cafés, shops, and cultural sites.

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