Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis) in Riga is one of the most powerful national symbols in Latvia. Unveiled in 1935, it was built to honor the soldiers who died during the Latvian War of Independence (1918–1920). Today, it stands not just as a tribute to the past, but as a beacon of freedom, unity, and resilience.

Standing 42 meters tall, the monument is crowned by a graceful female figure known as Milda, who holds three stars above her head — representing the three historical regions of Latvia: Kurzeme, Vidzeme, and Latgale. At the base, sculptural reliefs depict scenes of Latvian culture, struggle, and national pride.

During the Soviet occupation, the monument was allowed to remain standing, but public gatherings around it were forbidden. After Latvia regained independence in 1991, the Freedom Monument once again became a gathering place for celebrations and protests alike — a true civic heart of the nation.

In this activity, students will recreate the Freedom Monument and explore how public art can reflect the values and hopes of a people, even through times of silence and resistance.

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🛠️ What materials do you want to work with?

Choose how you want to explore each monument!Use the icons below to access resources on different platforms:

• 🗺️ Genially – Visit the interactive map with all the monuments

• 🎨 Canva – Open the classroom materials and printable activities

• ▶️ YouTube – Watch a tutorial video to learn more about the monument

• 🧱 Tinkercad – Access the 3D model to explore, copy, or customize the structure
  

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