Geography 101 in its fourth season, featuring the heart of the Baltics, exploring the country of Latvia

Geography 101

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4d ago 27:56

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Latvia spans about 64,000 square kilometers, making it slightly larger than West Virginia in the United States. Its capital, Riga, is the largest city in the Baltic States and a hub of culture, architecture, and innovation. Latvia’s geographic position has made it a crossroads of Northern and Eastern Europe for centuries. This location shaped its history, culture, and economy in profound ways.

The terrain of Latvia is predominantly low-lying, with flat plains and gently rolling hills. It’s a land carved by ancient glaciers, which left behind thousands of lakes, bogs, and fertile soils. The highest point in the country is Gaiziņkalns, which reaches just 312 meters. Yet even with modest elevations, Latvia boasts breathtaking scenery.

Forests dominate more than half of Latvia’s land area, making it one of the greenest countries in Europe. Pine, spruce, and birch trees create an enchanting landscape that feels almost untouched by time. These forests are home to wolves, lynx, and elk, adding a wild mystique to the Latvian countryside. Nature is truly at the heart of Latvian identity.

Latvia has an extensive coastline, stretching more than 500 kilometers along the Baltic Sea. The sandy beaches, especially in Jurmala, attract visitors from around the world. The Gulf of Riga offers calmer waters compared to the open sea, making it ideal for sailing and fishing. This coastal life has long influenced Latvian culture and cuisine.

The Daugava River is the lifeline of Latvia, flowing from Russia through Belarus before crossing the country and emptying into the Gulf of Riga. It has been called the “River of Destiny” because of its central role in trade, transport, and cultural development. Many towns and cities were founded along its banks. Even today, it remains a symbol of national pride.

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