The Freedom Monument
According to the Riga Municipal Monument Agency «the Freedom Monument is one the most outstanding historical, architectural and artistical monuments in Latvia. It was erected using donations from the people as a symbol of Latvia’s independence, which shows the respect and affection the Latvian people have towards their fatherland and freedom. The idea to build a monument dedicated to Latvia’s freedom was first announced in 1920, during the final days of the battles for independence. The project design competition was held in several rounds and lasted eight years. The monument’s foundation stone was put into place on November 18, 1931. The Freedom Monument was unveiled and dedicated on November 18, 1935. It was constructed using sculptor Kārlis Zāle’s (1888-1942) design called Mirdzi kā Zvaigzne (Shine Like a Star). Ernests Štālbergs was the lead architect on the project, with the iconic Freedom statue made by the Swedish metal craftsman Ragnar Myrsmeden (1889-1989).» These photos were taken in May 2024 and show some views of the monument.