The Latvian War museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in Latvia. It was founded in 1916 as the Latvian riflemen museum. Since 1919 the museum is located in the Powder Tower (14th century), one of the former fortification towers of Riga.

The museum’s aim is to reveal to the public the complex military and political history of Latvia, with particular emphasis on the 20th century, during which the Latvian nation had to fight for its independence twice.

The largest and most significant part of the museum’s collection consists of objects about the military and political history of Latvia in the 20th century. The core of the museum’s collection holds more than 25 400 units, which are systematized into 22 individual collections. The War museum is proud of its collections of weapons, photos, documents, medals and military uniforms.

Permanent exhibitions about the art of warfare and Latvian soldiers, First and Second world wars, Latvian Army, Soviet occupation and the gaining of independence in 1918 and 1991 can be seen in the museum. 

THE LATVIAN WAR MUSEUM

20, Smilsu Street, (Pulvertornis)

Riga, LV-1050

Latvia

Entrance to the museum is free of charge.

Working hours: Wednesday – Sunday (10.00 – 17.00)