This controversial statue once honoured a Russian Field Marshall, before ultimately being dismantled in a push to remove symbols of Russian influence.

This celebration of Latvia’s freedom and independence avoided demolition over half a century of Soviet occupation.

The statue of a legendary giant who carried Christ and shouldered the world's sins.

This controversial monument was designed to lionize the Red Army, but also disheartened the Latvian people.

The reconstruction of this prominent building fulfilled a long-written command.

This charming Latvian lane doubled as Baker Street on the Soviet Union’s version of Sherlock Holmes.

The oldest housing complex in Riga is a mini timeline of architectural trends.

A black cat protests the City Guild in Riga's Old Town.

This enigmatic artifact remained buried in a churchyard for years.

A stone marker and sculpture in the city of Riga stake a claim for the very first community Christmas tree.

3,000 market stands in five former Zeppelin hangars.

A preserved oak tree about 3,500 years old found in Riga, Latvia.

Latvia's symbolic mountain-shaped national library is home to millions of cultural tomes.

This symbol of Polish heritage survived the occupation during World War II, hidden in plain sight.

Come to this Polish museum to take a good, clean look at filth.

A merchant court dedicated to the fictitious King Arthur is heavily adorned with bizarre Renaissance art.

The site of the first battle of World War II.

A haunting deserted hotel is a favorite with artists and photographers.

In the summer, the area around this sculpture transforms into a vibrant concert venue.

An abandoned football stadium with a tragic past.

At nearly four meters tall, this giant potato looms over a small Polish town.

This towering statue of Jesus provided internet to the surrounding area.

This house's itty bitty size means no humans allowed.

The magnificent sanctuary is Spain's first purpose-built structure of its kind.