Latvia has a rich folklore heritage. Some customs existing in this country are not found anywhere else in the world. On December 25, Latvians celebrate Christmas, in which pagan and Catholic traditions are mixed. Christmas trees have been decorated here since the beginning of the 16th century. It is believed that it was in Latvia that the tree was first dressed. Christmas markets open throughout the country. Burning large logs is compulsory. In pagan times, this symbolized the worship to the sun god. Today, the oak log is burned along with all the bad things that happened in the old year. Festive family tables are necessarily served with traditional ginger cakes. Many Latvians walk the streets wearing masks of animals, monsters and dead to scare away evil spirits and attract good luck.
Monuments and architectural objects, notable for the history and culture of the country.
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The majority of tourist routes in Latvia start with a visit to Riga. There’s nothing strange in that as in the capital it’s possible to see main …
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The summer solstice is celebrated at the world-famous Ligo Summer Festival on the night of June 23-24. This bright, colorful holiday has pagan roots. Latvians burn fires all night, weave beautiful wreaths of flowers and herbs and adorn their heads, animals and houses, dress up in traditional costumes, tell ancient legends, drink beer, sing folk songs, and dance. According to legend, on this day you can meet real witches. It is also believed that if one throws into a river or a lake two wreaths, one of which symbolizes its owner and the other - his/her beloved one, by the behavior of the wreaths on the water, one can judge about the joint future: if the wreaths meet, the lovers will get married. Another belief is connected with fern. The one who finds its flower will be able to understand the languages of animals and plants.
Latvia deservedly bears the title of the heart of the Baltics. On its territory, it has gathered many cultural, historical, architectural, and …
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