Three Brothers
Riga Region
The Three Brothers is a historic complex of three adjoining houses located in the heart of Riga's Old Town, representing the oldest surviving residential buildings in the city. Each house reflects a distinct architectural period: the oldest, at 17 Maza Pils Street, dates back to the late 15th century and features Gothic crow-stepped gables and early Renaissance details. The second house, at 19 Maza Pils Street, was built in 1646 and displays Dutch Mannerist influences, with a stone portal added in the 18th century. The third building, at 21 Maza Pils Street, is a narrow Baroque structure from the early 18th century with a facade designed to ward off evil spirits. Historically, these buildings served various functions including residential, artisanal workshops, and even Riga's first confectionery. Today, the complex houses the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the State Inspection for Heritage Protection. The Three Brothers are a unique architectural ensemble that illustrates the evolution of dwelling house construction in Riga and have been recognized with the European Heritage Label for their cultural significance.
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Tip: Visit the Three Brothers during spring or early autumn to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Tickets for the Latvian Museum of Architecture housed within can be purchased on-site, but booking in advance is recommended for groups or guided tours. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and families. The complex is centrally located near Dome Square, making it easily accessible by foot or public transport.
Interesting facts
- •The Three Brothers form the oldest complex of residential buildings in Riga, with the oldest dating back to the late 15th century.
- •The facade of the oldest house features Gothic crow-stepped gables and early Renaissance details.
- •The middle house displays Dutch Mannerism influences and has a stone portal originally from the neighboring building.
- •The narrow Baroque house includes a facade mask believed to protect against evil spirits.
- •During the 19th century, the third house was converted into rental apartments with small flats.
- •The courtyard contains a stone slab with the Riga coat of arms and the year 1554, originally part of a different building destroyed during World War II.
- •The complex currently houses the Latvian Museum of Architecture and the State Inspection for Heritage Protection.
History
The oldest house of the Three Brothers complex, at 17 Maza Pils Street, was constructed in the late 15th century, making it the oldest surviving residential building in Riga.
The second house was built in 1646, with its facade remodeled in the Dutch Mannerist style and a stone portal added in 1746.
The third house dates to the early 18th century and exhibits Baroque architectural features.
The complex underwent significant restoration between 1953 and 1957, led by architect Pēteris Saulītis, who incorporated elements salvaged from buildings destroyed during World War II.
In 2020, the European Commission awarded the Three Brothers the European Heritage Label, recognizing their importance as a cultural and architectural monument.
Place Guide
17 Maza Pils Street (White Brother)late 15th century
The oldest of the three houses, dating from the late 15th century. It features crow-stepped gables and Gothic-Renaissance architectural details. Originally it had one large room and an attic used for storage. In the 18th century, it was owned by the elder of the Small Guild, whose coat of arms is visible in the courtyard. The building was restored in the 1950s by architect Pēteris Saulītis.
19 Maza Pils Street (Yellow Brother)1646
Built in 1646, this house exhibits Dutch Mannerism style. It originally had a large room with a fireplace on the ground floor and living quarters on the upper floors. The stone portal from 1746 was moved here during restoration. Most owners were craftsmen.
21 Maza Pils Street (Green Brother)1718
A narrow Baroque building constructed in the early 18th century. Its facade features a mask believed to protect against evil spirits. Initially owned by a pastor from St. Jacob's Church, it was later converted into rental apartments in the 19th century. Despite its narrow street frontage, the building's depth matches its neighbors due to courtyard extensions.
Courtyard and Stone Slab1554
The courtyard behind the buildings contains a stone slab with the Riga coat of arms and the date 1554. Originally colorful and part of a warehouse destroyed during WWII, it was incorporated into the courtyard during restoration.
Contact
Phone: 67 037 900
