House of the Blackheads (Riga)

The House of the Blackheads is a historic building located in the old town of Riga, Latvia, originally constructed in 1334 as a meeting place for merchants. It served as the headquarters for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, and features stunning Mannerist ornamentation added in the 17th century. Notably, it is the site of the first decorated Christmas tree in 1510. After being destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt between 1996 and 2000 with contributions from over 5,000 participants. Today, it functions as an event center and museum, showcasing grand ballrooms, historic cabinets, and an authentic cellar dating back to the 14th century, offering visitors a glimpse into Riga's rich history and commerce.