Freedom Monument – Symbol of Latvia’s Independence / Brīvības piemineklis – Latvijas brīvības simbols / Памятник Свободы – символ независимости Латвии
THE SOUL OF RIGA
Freedom Monument – Symbol of Latvia’s Independence
History and Facts
The Freedom Monument was unveiled in 1935, built from public donations in honor of those who fell during Latvia’s War of Independence. The sculptor Kārlis Zāle designed the 42-meter granite and copper monument, crowned with the figure of Liberty, affectionately known as “Milda,” holding three stars representing Latvia’s historical regions.

Interesting Fact
During the Soviet occupation, the monument was not demolished, but gatherings nearby were prohibited. Still, people laid flowers here, turning it into a place of quiet resistance and a reminder of Latvia’s independence.

Author’s Note
I chose this monument because it represents, for me, the very soul of Latvia. In this image, I wanted to capture the figure of “Milda” framed between the silhouettes of trees, opening like symbolic gates of freedom.

Jānis Kaugurs 2017. SIA CAPTURE DESIGN

Rediscover Riga with the exclusive “SOUL OF RIGA” collection – black-and-white artistic puzzles and playing cards created in infrared technique, capturing the city’s atmosphere, architecture, and unique spirit.

SIA BLACK BIRD, JŪSU DRUKA presents: Soul of Riga – Puzzles and Cards

Made on
Tilda