Latvia


Year of EU entry: 2004
Political system: Republic
Capital city: Riga
Total area: 65 000 km²
Population: 2.3 million
Currency: Lats
Listen to the official EU language :
Latvian


Latvia regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Situated on the Baltic coast, Latvia is a low-lying country with large forests that supply timber for construction and paper industries. The environment is rich in wildlife. Latvia also produces consumer goods, textiles and machine tools. The country attracts tourists from all over Europe.Ethnically, the population is 59% Latvian and 29% Russian, and more than a third live in the capital Riga. Founded, in 1201, Riga is the largest city in the three Baltic states with a population of 730 000. Its Freedom Statue is one of the highest in Europe, at 43 metres.



The 100-seat unicameral Latvian Parliament, the Saeima, is elected by direct, popular vote every four years. The president is elected by the Parliament, also every four years.

Among the best-known Latvians are the expressionist painter Mark Rothko and the contemporary composer Peteris Vasks.

Characteristic specialities of Latvian cuisine are speķa pīrādziņi (bacon pies) and a refreshing, cold sour cream soup.


Introduction to the country and travel infos:
http://www.latviatourism.lv/info.php