The Latvian War Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in Latvia. It was established in 1916 as the Latvian Riflemen Museum. Since 1919, the museum has been housed in the Powder Tower, a 14th-century fortification and one of the few remaining medieval towers in Riga.

The museum’s mission is to present the complex military and political history of Latvia, with a particular focus on the 20th century—a period during which the Latvian people fought for their independence on two separate occasions.

The most substantial and significant part of the museum's collection pertains to Latvia’s military and political history during the 20th century. The museum holds over 25,400 artifacts, organized into 22 thematic collections. It is especially proud of its extensive holdings of weapons, photographs, documents, medals, and military uniforms.

Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions covering the art of warfare, Latvian soldiers, the First and Second World Wars, the Latvian Army, the Soviet occupation, and Latvia’s declarations of independence in 1918 and 1991.

The Latvian War Museum is located in the very heart of the city – in Riga’s Old Town, just a short walk from some of the capital’s most iconic tourist attractions, including Dome Square, the House of the Blackheads, and the Freedom Monument.

Our address: Smilšu iela 20, Riga, Latvia (view map) (Just look for the medieval tower – that’s us!) 

Working hours: Tuesday – Sunday (10.00 AM – 18.00 PM)

Entrance to the museum is free of charge, you don’t need to book.