Jugendstil, art nouveau, modern style - all these words denote an elegant and romantic style of art and architecture popular at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries. The main trend of modern style is a departure from the severity of sharp angles and straight lines. Rounded shapes, an abundance of decorative elements, plant and floral ornaments - all this gives modern style невероятное очарование. It is no wonder that the flourishing period of this style in Europe is called 'Belle Epoque' - "The Beautiful Era."
Riga is known as the cradle of Jugendstil; about 800 buildings adorn the city's streets, giving it a fairy-tale appearance.
Alberta Street is the quintessence of Riga Jugendstil; practically every building on it is a masterpiece, and many of them are among monuments of national significance.
House No. 12 on Alberta Street has managed to completely preserve the atmosphere of the Belle Epoque, because this is where the Jugendstil Museum is located. In the house-museum, consisting of 13 rooms, the interior and furnishings of 1903 have been fully restored, when the outstanding Riga architect Konstantins Pēkšēns lived there.
The museum is beautiful inside and out, from the corner tower crowning the building to the exquisite paintings on the walls and ceiling. The magnificent irregular spiral staircase is famous far beyond the borders of Latvia. Is it conceivable - steps as an object of art? Yes, if it is a staircase in the modern style, for it is truly beautiful - with graceful painting, ornate railings, and luxurious chandeliers.
In the dining room, a table is set with porcelain and crystal; in the study, there is an abundance of books; the gramophone is ready to play a foxtrot; a lace parasol has been carelessly thrown onto the armchair... It seems the owners have just left the house and will soon return.
You will experience a feeling of complete immersion in the reality of the early 20th century and will even be able to try on a ladies' hat from those times for a photo - with feathers, flowers, and ribbons.
