Riga is known as the capital of Art Nouveau Architecture. In Riga, you can enjoy a "real life gallery" of Art Nouveau architecture by the architect Mikhail Eisenstein, among others. The two main styles of Art Nouveau seen in Riga are the Eclectic and National Romanticism styles.

Known as the New Style, Art Nouveau was first expressed in fabrics and graphic design. This style spread to architecture and furniture in the 1890's. Art Nouveau buildings often have asymmetrical shapes, arches, and decorative surfaces with curved, plant-like designs.

The Riga Law School and the Swedish School of Economics is a typical Art Nouveau-style building. You can also see many fine examples on Alberta, Elizabetes and Strelnieku streets.

In Latvian, old town Riga  is called Vecriga. It is the oldest part of the city, lying on the right bank of the River Daugava. The narrow streets, warehouses from the Middle Ages, houses, and many churches are worth attention and interest. One of the oldest and most amazing structures in Riga is the Dome Cathedral, it is well known for its colorful mixture of architectural styles. St. Peter's church is a spectacular monument of decorative architecture, while the former  Castle of the Livonian Order reflects the bright history of Riga itself and is the home of the Latvian President. In Old Town there are many interesting historical buildings within an area of about 40 hectares.