The museum building was the first structure in the Baltics purpose-built to function specifically as an art museum.
During the 2016 renovation, a new underground glass-roofed extension was constructed to increase exhibition space by 780 square meters.
The facade features sculptures of allegorical figures representing different forms of art, carved by August Volz.
The museum's collection includes significant pieces of Baltic German art, reflecting the region's historical cultural influences.
The museum holds an extensive collection of Soviet-era art, providing historical context for 20th-century Latvian aesthetics.
The Latvian National Museum of Art is the primary repository for professional art in Latvia, housing over 52,000 works. The building is a 1905 landmark designed by architect Wilhelm Neumann in a neoclassical style with baroque elements. Following a major reconstruction completed in 2016, the museum expanded underground to include modern exhibition spaces and a climate-controlled storage facility. The collection spans from the mid-18th century to contemporary art, emphasizing the development of the Latvian national school of painting. Key holdings include works by Janis Rozentāls, Vilhelms Purvītis, and Johann Walter. The museum serves as the center of the Latvian National Museum of Art network, which includes several specialized branches throughout Riga. The interior features a grand staircase and a light-filled dome that defines its architectural character.
The main grand staircase under the ornate skylight dome.
Visit the rooftop terrace for an elevated view of the Esplanāde park and the skyline of central Riga.
Use the museum's mobile app or interactive guides to navigate the permanent exhibition's historical timeline.
Check the official website for current temporary exhibitions, as these change frequently and often occupy the basement galleries.
Attempting to see the entire permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in under an hour, as the layout is expansive.
Closed on Mondays.
