Riga, Latvia was established as a German river trading town in the 12th century, and became the home base of the Teutonic Knights of the Sword in the 14th Century. Our excursion took us to the partially restored Turaida Castle, used by the Teutonic Knights, and to the newer (still ruins) Sigulda Castle. We also stopped at a grotto called Gutmanis cave which was supposed to have a spring which would heal people. Many who visited over the centuries left their mark (literally) in the sandstone. After the excursion, we had time to wander the old town of Riga, grab a bite in one of the many cafes, and head back to the ship.
Riga Panorama
![Riga Panorama](/img/s/v-10/p3732205059-11.jpg)
Turaida Church
![Turaida Church](/img/s/v-10/p3732205064-11.jpg)
Turaida Castle Tower
![Turaida Castle Tower](/img/s/v-10/p3732205050-11.jpg)
View of Gauja River from Turaida Tower
![View of Gauja River from Turaida Tower](/img/s/v-10/p3732205068-11.jpg)
Northern Turaida Castle Ruins and Grounds
![Northern Turaida Castle Ruins and Grounds](/img/s/v-10/p3732205096-11.jpg)
Gutmanis Cave
![Gutmanis Cave](/img/s/v-10/p3732205060-11.jpg)
Kropotkin's Manor House
![Kropotkin's Manor House](/img/s/v-10/p3732205092-11.jpg)
Sigulda Castle Ruins
![Sigulda Castle Ruins](/img/s/v-10/p3732205061-11.jpg)
Sigulda Castle Wall
![Sigulda Castle Wall](/img/s/v-10/p3732205057-11.jpg)
Riga City Square
![Riga City Square](/img/s/v-10/p3732205109-11.jpg)
Sandy Beside Riga Cafes
![Sandy Beside Riga Cafes](/img/s/v-10/p3732205053-11.jpg)
Riga Side Street
![Riga Side Street](/img/s/v-10/p3732205069-11.jpg)
Typical Tourist on Riga Street
![Typical Tourist on Riga Street](/img/s/v-10/p3732205072-11.jpg)
Another Riga Square
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