Southward from the center of the Old Town of Riga, along the right bank of the Daugava, is a quarter gilded with a historical aura – Spikeri Quarter and its adjacent promenade, which are part of the territory of UNESCO Cultural Heritage – the historical center of the city of Riga.
Since the 14th century, this area had a wharf for loading and unloading cargo ships. The location had several warehouses (Hanf – Ambaren or “hemp warehouse” in German).
The warehouse quarter was created in the second half of the 19th century, when the territory was covered with uniform warehouses. Designed in the 19thcentury by the best architects of the Baltic States, the simple but striking red brick buildings there are 150 years old.
As in many old industrial quarters in European cities, Spikeri Quarter, too, is home to the arts and offices. During the warm time of year, Spikeri Quarter offers a wide choice of open-air events, concerts, sporty activities, outdoor cinema evenings, flea markets and other entertainment. Spikeri Quarter is an enterprising venue, as well as one of the “hottest” spots during the capital’s large-scale happenings – White Night Festival, Riga City Festival, Night of Museums etc.