Riga’s Freedom Monument combines sculpture, national symbolism and a history of public remembrance. Unveiled in 1935, it became a gathering place during Latvia’s movement to restore independence, including a flower-laying for Soviet deportation victims in 1987.
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Three gilded stars rise above Riga’s Freedom Monument, held aloft by a female figure known affectionately as Milda. They represent Kurzeme, Vidzeme and Latgale, the historical regions brought together in Latvia’s coat of arms. Beneath her, stone figures tell a larger story about work, family, culture and the struggle for freedom. The monument is both a work of sculpture and a place where people have gathered to make history.
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UpgradeQuick facts
- The monument was unveiled on 18 November 1935 after being funded by public donations.
- The three stars represent the historical regions Kurzeme, Vidzeme and Latgale.
- Helsinki-86 organised a flower-laying here on 14 June 1987 to commemorate victims of the 1941 Soviet deportations.
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