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Riga

The Corner House, located at Brīvības iela 61 in Riga, Latvia, is a museum dedicated to the history of KGB operations in Latvia. Originally built in 1912, it served various purposes before becoming the KGB headquarters during the Soviet occupation. The museum offers guided tours that provide insights into the building's dark past, including access to cells, interrogation rooms, and the execution chamber. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the authentic preservation of the building, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The Corner House Museum in Riga Latvia: A Sobering Journey Through History 

Nestled in the heart of Riga at Brīvības iela 61, The Corner House stands as a profound monument to Latvia’s turbulent past during the Soviet occupation. Once the chilling headquarters of the KGB, this historic building has been meticulously preserved to offer visitors a raw and immersive glimpse into a dark chapter of 20th-century history.

The Corner House museum invites history buffs, cultural travelers, and curious minds alike to walk through preserved corridors where secrets were once kept. Visitors gain exclusive access to the cells, interrogation rooms, and even the execution chamber, vividly illustrating the harrowing experiences faced by many Latvians. The building itself remains largely unchanged, maintaining an atmosphere stripped of tourism gloss, which deepens the authenticity of the visit.

The museum offers highly recommended English-language guided tours that bring the building’s history to life. These tours strike a careful balance, providing detailed insights without glorifying the tragic past. Knowledgeable and theatrical guides enrich each visit with personal stories and cultural context, making the experience both informative and deeply moving.

 The Corner House is a museum in Riga, Latvia, dedicated to the history of KGB operations during the Soviet occupation.

 The museum is located at Brīvības iela 61, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia.

 The museum is open daily from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

 Guided tours cost €10 for adults and €4 for students, with free entry to the ground-floor exhibition. The museum is free for visitors with disabilities and their carers.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

 Photography is generally prohibited to protect the exhibits and maintain the museum's respectful atmosphere.

Beyond its historical significance, The Corner House is praised by visitors for its heartfelt storytelling and the empathetic approach to the painful legacy of Soviet repression. Reviews highlight the respectful preservation of the building and the compelling narratives shared by guides, making it an essential experience for anyone interested in Latvia’s history or the broader themes of resilience and human rights.

Plan your visit to The Corner House and step back into a pivotal moment of Latvian history with an engaging, educational, and deeply moving museum experience.

The museum is equipped with restroom facilities and is mindful of accessibility needs, offering free admission to visitors with disabilities and their carers. While it is not recommended for children due to the serious nature of the content, adults will find it an enriching and contemplative cultural stop in Riga's city center.

Discover Riga’s historical facets at The Corner House museum

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a traveler seeking meaningful experiences, or a local interested in Latvia’s heritage, The Corner House offers a unique and powerful window into the past. This museum is a testament to resilience and remembrance, making it a must-visit cultural landmark in Riga.

Europe

Latvia

Nestled in the heart of Rīga, The Corner House stands as a poignant reminder of Latvia's tumultuous past. Once the headquarters of the KGB, this historic building now serves as the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the country's struggles during the Soviet era. As you step inside, the atmosphere is thick with history, inviting you to explore the very rooms where significant events unfolded.

While The Corner House is primarily a museum, its location in the vibrant Centra rajons means you are just a stone's throw away from some of Rīga's best dining options. After immersing yourself in history, treat your palate to local delicacies at nearby eateries. Don't miss the chance to try the traditional Latvian dish, "grey peas with speck," a hearty and flavorful staple, or indulge in a warm bowl of "baltic herring" paired with freshly baked rye bread.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Corner House is its dedication to preserving the stories of those who suffered under the KGB regime. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including personal accounts and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life during the occupation. A standout feature is the preserved interrogation room, where visitors can almost feel the weight of history in the air.

 Engage with knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of the past to life.

 Experience the history through multimedia presentations and personal stories.

 The museum is accessible to all, ensuring everyone can engage with Latvia's history.

 It is known for its historical significance as the former KGB headquarters and its role in preserving Latvia's occupation history.

 To gain a deeper understanding of Latvia's history and the impact of the KGB on its people.

 The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Whether you're a history buff or a curious traveler, The Corner House offers an unforgettable experience that connects you to Latvia's past. Don't miss the chance to explore this significant landmark and learn about the resilience of its people. Plan your visit today and step into a world where history comes alive.

Previous KGB headquarters, now home to Museum of the Occupation of Latvia displays.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeG9fM0tBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ598uC8zP7kYRzbrg8afceGA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeG9fM0tBEAE

Really informative and interesting tour. My fried. And I booked a last minute tour of the KGB headquarters whilst we were in Riga. The tour was in English and they went in to just enough detail to tell you everything, but not enough to glorify or embellish the events of the past.
The building itself is largely left as it was when it was vacated, so nothing fancy or ‘touristy’ about it.
Thoroughly recommend this place if you are visiting Riga.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbWQzbW13RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ598uC8zP7kYRzbrg8afceGA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbWQzbW13RRAB

A very enlightening tour. It was heartbreaking to realize how many people suffered due to KGB activity in Latvia. They have done a great job in bringing individual as well as cultural stories of life during the Russian occupation of Latvia.

I highly recommend the English language tour.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa3VtVXd3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ598uC8zP7kYRzbrg8afceGA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa3VtVXd3RRAB

You can enter and see the first floor for free which doesnt give you access to be able to see the cells.
For €5 for students and €15 for adults. For people with disabilities and their carers the museum is free.
The museum gives an interesting snapshot of life in the soviet union for the latvian population. There are toilet facilities on the site. I recommend the tour, and while I did not catch his name, my tour guide was incredible, informative, and theatrical. He really brought the tour to life. Thank you.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYeUxfZXlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ598uC8zP7kYRzbrg8afceGA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYeUxfZXlBRRAB

I enjoyed the guided tour around the corner house. Within the week I had done this as well as the KGB cells in Vilnius and Tallinn. These were probably the best of the 3. The tour guide was knowledgeable and there is a lot to see here, you are given some freedom in the tour to explore for yourself a little bit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQd3MtWnV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ598uC8zP7kYRzbrg8afceGA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQd3MtWnV3RRAB

I definitely recommend visiting this museum with a guide.

It wouldn't be as informative without one. Our guide was great, he spoke fluent English and his speech complemented the entire tour.

It was really good!

Explore The Corner House Museum in Riga, Latvia - KGB History

The Corner House, built in 1912, has served various purposes, including as a music school, library, and bookstore. During the Soviet occupation, it became the KGB headquarters, where numerous Latvians were imprisoned, interrogated, and executed. After Latvia regained independence, the building was used by the State Police until 2008. In 2014, it was opened to the public as part of Riga's tenure as a European Capital of Culture and now serves as a museum detailing the history of the KGB in Latvia.

The Corner House: A Historical Overview of Riga's KGB Headquarters Museum.

Nestled at 61 Brīvības iela in the vibrant Centro rajons of Rīga, Latvia, The Corner House stands not just as a building, but as a powerful testament to the tumultuous history of the region. Constructed in 1912, this architectural gem has experienced a dramatic metamorphosis, from serving as apartments and shops to acting as a notorious center of fear and oppression during the Soviet era.

1912: Building completed, serving as apartments and shops.

1940: Converted into KGB headquarters during Soviet occupation.

1991: Latvia regained independence; building used by State Police until 2008.

2014: Opened to the public as part of Riga's European Capital of Culture.

During its dark chapter as the KGB headquarters, the building was a site of imprisonment, interrogation, and execution for countless Latvians. This haunting legacy prompted a transformation once Latvia regained its freedom. The Corner House was repurposed and, until 2008, was utilized by the State Police, serving as a reminder of the region’s complex history.

In 2014, The Corner House was revitalized and opened as a museum, now known as the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia. This establishment not only sheds light on the harrowing experiences endured during the Soviet occupation but also serves as a vital educational platform, allowing visitors to grasp the profound impact of history on contemporary Latvian society. Today, The Corner House is a crucial destination for anyone seeking to understand the darker days of Latvia's past while honoring the resilience of its people.

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The Corner House is a museum in Rīga, Latvia, showcasing the history of the KGB and the occupation of Latvia. Once the KGB headquarters, it now invites visitors to explore its haunting past through curated exhibits and artifacts that reflect the struggles and resilience of the Latvian people.

The Corner House

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The Corner House is a museum in Rīga, Latvia, showcasing the history of the KGB's operations in the country. Once the KGB headquarters, it now serves as a poignant reminder of Latvia's past, featuring exhibits that detail the lives affected by the Soviet regime.

Explore The Corner House in Riga, Latvia—a unique museum showcasing rich history and culture. Discover intriguing exhibits and captivating stories today!

The Corner House Museum in Riga | Unique Cultural Experience

Riga Municipality

In-depth tours of the former KGB headquarters, including access to cells, interrogation rooms, and the execution chamber.

Guided Tours

the corner house museum in riga latvia overview and experience guide 

Nestled in the heart of Riga on Brīvības iela, The Corner House stands as a solemn yet captivating museum dedicated to Latvia's complex past under Soviet rule. This former KGB headquarters, preserved with authenticity, offers visitors a rare, immersive glimpse into the harrowing history of occupation and surveillance. Far from a typical tourist spot, it delivers an educational and reflective experience that deeply resonates with history buffs, cultural travelers, and those intrigued by Cold War legacies.

For a comprehensive and engaging exploration, join the expert-guided tours priced at €10. These tours provide exclusive access to the building's haunting cells, interrogation rooms, and the execution chamber — spaces that tell powerful stories of resilience and human endurance. The guides speak fluent English and skillfully weave historical facts with personal and cultural narratives, ensuring visitors gain a balanced understanding without glorification or embellishment.

 is thoughtfully maintained with authenticity in mind, with much of the original structure left intact. Visitors can freely explore the first floor, making the entrance accessible for all, including those with disabilities. Restroom facilities are available onsite to enhance comfort during your visit. However, this museum does not cater to children, as the subject matter and exhibits are quite sobering and intense.

This museum offers an eye-opening snapshot of Latvian life during the Soviet occupation, highlighting the resilience and suffering of its people. The authentic atmosphere combined with the knowledgeable and theatrical guides creates an unforgettable educational experience. It's highly recommended if you want to deepen your understanding of Latvia’s history beyond the usual tourist trails.

Authentic exposure to former KGB headquarters

 - Explore real cells, interrogation, and execution rooms.

 - Expert guides provide balanced historical context in English.

 - First-floor access is free; accommodations for people with disabilities.

 - Restrooms available for visitor convenience.

Riga Region

Visit The Corner House in Riga for an insightful KGB museum tour. Experience Latvia's history with guided tours showcasing authentic artifacts!

Explore The Corner House: KGB Museum in Riga

Discover the haunting history of The Corner House in Riga. Join our guided tours to explore the KGB's past and enrich your Latvia experience!

The Corner House: A Historical Journey in Riga

Plan your visit to the KGB Museum (The Corner House) in Riga. Find tips, opening hours, and insightful guidance for an unforgettable experience!

the corner house museum in riga latvia overview and experience guide

guided tours at the corner house

visitor experience and amenities

why visit the corner house museum