In the middle of the Baltics
Latvia is a Baltic country in Northern Europe, bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, and the Baltic Sea to the west. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, from dense forests to sandy beaches.
Key Facts
Capital: Riga
Population: Approximately 1.8 million (2023)
Official Language: Latvian
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Government: Unitary parliamentary republic
EU Membership: Latvia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the Eurozone.
Geography
Latvia has a mix of flat terrain, low hills, forests, and a long coastline:
Landscape: More than half of Latvia is forested, and it has many rivers and lakes. It also has 500 km of coastline along the Baltic Sea.
Climate: Latvia experiences a temperate seasonal climate with cold winters and mild, rainy summers.
History
Latvia’s history is shaped by centuries of foreign domination and its strategic location in the Baltic region:
Early History: The region was historically inhabited by various Baltic tribes, and later came under the control of the Livonian Order and Teutonic Knights during the Middle Ages.
Polish and Swedish Rule: During the 16th and 17th centuries, parts of Latvia were controlled by the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden.
Russian Empire: Latvia became part of the Russian Empire in the early 18th century after the Great Northern War.
Independence: Latvia first gained independence in 1918 after World War I. However, it was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940, then by Nazi Germany during World War II, before falling under Soviet control again in 1944.
Post-Soviet Independence: Latvia regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. It has since become a democratic republic and joined the European Union in 2004.
Economy
Latvia has a well-developed economy, driven by sectors such as:
Services: The largest sector, with tourism, information technology, and finance playing key roles.
Manufacturing: Latvia produces electronics, machinery, and wood products.
Agriculture: Latvia also grows grains, vegetables, and raises livestock.
Culture
Latvian culture is influenced by its historical ties with Germany, Russia, and Sweden, as well as its own unique traditions:
Language: Latvian is part of the Baltic language group, one of the oldest in Europe.
Folklore: Latvia has a rich tradition of folk music and dance. The Latvian Song and Dance Festival is one of the most important cultural events, showcasing traditional music.
Cuisine: Latvian cuisine includes dishes like Rupjmaize (rye bread), grey peas with bacon, and piragi (small bacon-filled pastries).
Architecture: Riga is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and medieval Old Town.
Challenges
Demographics: Latvia has a declining population due to low birth rates and emigration.
Russian Minority: Around a quarter of Latvia’s population is ethnically Russian, and the integration of this group into Latvian society has posed political and social challenges.
Geopolitical Position: Latvia maintains a delicate balance in relations with both Western Europe and Russia due to its historical experiences and geographical proximity to Russia.
Copyright (C) S. Midttun, 2024
