Town Walls
In Middle Ages Riga, as every European city, was surrounded by a town walls. When in 16th and 17th century the system of earthen ramparts was constructed, the old walls was no longer important.
The only one remainder from eight town gates is Swedish Gate, created in 1689, when the city enlarged around the city walls, and the quick communication was needed. The name origin from the Swedish garrison, which was located in that part of the city.
Just beside the Swedish Gate rise the most interesting part of Town Walls – Powder Tower. It is the only preserved from many medieval bastions. The first tower at this place was built in 1330, but it was destroyed in 17th century. Present 25-meters heigh construction was completed in 1650. Nowadays the Tower is a part of the Latvian War Museum.
