Latvian State Historical Archive

The Latvian State Historical Archive is an archive and local architectural monument holding extensive collections spanning from 1220 to 1945. Documents are housed at two locations: the main building on Slokas Street and a secondary reading room on Palasta Street.

Founded in 1908, the archive preserves records from the chancelleries of Vidzeme and Kurzeme knighthood, the Duchy of Kurzeme, and Baltic colonial administrators. These holdings span several centuries of political and administrative change in the region.

The collections reflect how manor estates, churches, and government offices operated and connected during the independent Republic period from 1918 to 1940. Through these records, you understand the administrative and social fabric of that era.

Access to the reading rooms at both locations requires advance appointments with specific time slots throughout the week. It helps to contact ahead to confirm material availability and arrange a suitable visiting time.

The institution publishes scientific articles on archival science topics and hosts events during International Archives Week to highlight document preservation. This effort demonstrates how crucial historical records are for understanding the past.

Location: Kurzeme District

Inception: 1908

Phone: +37167612406

Email: vestures.arhivs@lvva.gov.lv

Website: http://arhivi.lv/index.php?&16

GPS coordinates: 56.94670,24.07383

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:15