St. Peter's Church

St. Peter's Church is a Lutheran church in central Riga built from red brick with a slender metal spire rising 123 meters (404 feet) above street level. The tower houses viewing platforms that open onto the rooftops of the old town and the Daugava below.

The church was founded in 1201 during the Baltic crusades as a gathering place for the merchant community. In 1352 the building received its first public clock, marking time for the growing town.

The name honors the apostle Peter and reflects the seafaring heritage of the merchant community that gathered here for worship. Today visitors encounter a soaring interior with tall arches and plain walls that create a sense of quiet space in the busy old town.

The church opens daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with extended hours until 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays for evening tower visits. An elevator inside provides access to the viewing platforms.

The tower was rebuilt several times through the centuries, including a wooden version from 1690 that stood as the tallest wooden structure in the world. After a fire during World War II, the tower received its current metal framework.

Location: Central District

Location: Riga

Inception: 13 century

Architectural style: Brick Gothic, Gothic art, Baroque

Height: 123.25 m

Length: 78.8 m

Width: 34.9 m

Made from material: brick

Address: Skārņu iela 19

Website: http://peterbaznica.riga.lv/en/news

GPS coordinates: 56.94750,24.10944

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30