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Other Latvian Symbols

The National Bird

The Latvian national bird is the baltā cielava or white wagtail (Motacilla alba). This slender and graceful bird is often found in Latvia from April till October. The white wagtail can usually be seen running briskly along the ground, wagging its tail up and down. This bird usually nests in the rafters and eaves of buildings, woodpiles, stone piles, and birdhouses. During the winter it migrates to Southern Europe and North Africa. The white wagtail was affirmed the national bird of Latvia in 1960 by the International Bird Protection Council.

The National Insect

The Latvian national insect is the two-spot ladybird (Adalia bipunctata). The two-spot ladybird is familiar as a useful insect that protects plants from parasites. Although rather slow by nature, it can defend itself well. Due to its appearance and behaviour it is widely known and liked throughout Latvia. The insect's Latvian name - mārīte - is a synonym for the ancient Latvian goddess Māra, who embodies the power of the earth. The two-spot ladybird was designated the national insect of Latvia by the Latvian Entomologists' Society.

The National Flower

The Latvian national flower is the pīpene or daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare, earlier also known as Chrysanthemum leucanthemum), which also grows here in the wild. In Latvian conditions the common or wild daisy blossoms from June till September. Daisies are a very popular flower and are often used in flower arrangements or given as gifts.

National Trees

The linden, or lime tree (Tilia cordata, Latvian: liepa) and the oak (Quercus robur, Latvian: ozols) are considered the national trees of Latvia. Oak and linden trees are characteristic elements of the Latvian landscape. Both trees are still widely used for medical purposes. Medicinal infusions are made of linden blossoms as well as oak bark. Latvian dainas (folk songs) often reflect ethical and moral concepts of earlier times. Amongst other trees, these folk songs most often mention the oak and linden tree.

In traditional Latvian folk beliefs and folklore the linden tree is looked upon as a female symbol, but the oak - a male symbol. The nation's reverence for these trees, which in earlier times were considered sacred, can be witnessed, for example, in a landscape where, in the middle of a cultivated field there still remains a lone large oak or linden tree.

Amber

Amber has long been viewed as a precious stone associated with the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea. Latvians themselves have often referred to the Baltic Sea as the Amber Sea (Dzintarjūra), reinforcing the symbolic importance of amber (dzintars) in Latvian culture and history. Unlike other precious and semi-precious stones which are formed through inorganic chemical processes, Baltic amber (succinite) is formed from organic elements - fossilised pine resin. For this reason, amber absorbs body heat and is easy to shape.

In ancient times Latvian territory was known as a source for amber. Amber from the Baltic Sea coast was valued as component for jewellery and was used for barter in Ancient Egypt, Assyria, Greece and the Roman Empire. At times it was considered even more valuable than gold. Just as in the past, amber today is most commonly used in jewellery. Amber has traditionally been used to create amulets, pendants, broaches, buttons, necklaces and intricate pieces of decorative jewellery. Amber has also been used for pharmaceutical purposes, since it contains succinic acid, which is considered to have unique medicinal properties.

Symbol of Latvian Fate - the River Daugava

The Daugava is considered the Latvian national river. The Daugava is the largest river that flows through Latvia (total length 1005 km, of these 352 km flow through Latvian territory).

Known as the "river of fate" or "mother of rivers", the Daugava has served as an ancient trade route linking the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, profoundly influencing the flow of Latvian history. For centuries the Daugava has served as an essential transport artery, means of livelihood, and source of energy. (Latvia's hydroelectric stations are located along the Daugava). Today, as in the past, the Daugava serves as a borderline between distinct Latvian cultural and historical regions, separating Kurzeme and Zemgale from Vidzeme and Latgale.

Symbol of Independence - Freedom Monument

The freedom monument, or Brīvības piemineklis, in the capital city Riga has become an undisputed symbol of independence. It was built from 1931 until 1935 from donated funds. The monument is designed by Latvian sculptor Kārlis Zāle.

At the base of the monument sculptural reliefs illustrate different significant moments in Latvia's history, while the very top displays the symbol of freedom - a woman who embodies the idea of Latvia's sovereignty. At the foot of the freedom monument there is never a lack of flowers, which are placed here with deep respect for those, who have formed this nation and who have sacrificed their lives in the fight for independence for the good of the nation and its people.

Jāņi

The annual celebration of the summer solstice, known as Jāņi is generally viewed as the most important Latvian holiday. Jāņi is celebrated on June 23 and 24. The traditions and rituals associated with the celebration of Jāņi are deeply rooted in ancient Latvian folklore and continue to have deep symbolic meaning for the celebrants. Participants gather flowers, grasses and oak leaves which are used for making wreaths and decorations. Jāņi night activities include the singing of special Jāņi songs (Līgo songs) around a ceremonial bonfire. Home-brewed beer and a special Jāņi caraway seed cheese are an essential part of this colourful holiday ritual.

© Text: Raimonds Cerūzis

© The Latvian Institute, 2004
This fact sheet can be freely printed from homepage of the Latvian Institute, distributed and cited, on condition that the Latvian Institute is acknowledged as the source. The Latvian Institute promotes knowledge about Latvia abroad. It produces publications, in several languages, on many aspects of Latvia.