Discover a piece of history and a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Riga! The Splendid Palace cinema is not only a historical gem but also a modern center for arts and entertainment. Founded in 1923, this iconic cinema has hosted generations of moviegoers and continues to be a beloved venue for events and screenings.
🏛 A Brief History of Splendid Palace
Splendid Palace opened its doors on December 30, 1923, under the vision of Russian émigré Vasily Yemelyanov. He dreamed of creating a cinema that would meet the highest European standards of luxury. Architect Friedrich Skujinsh brought this vision to life, combining elements of Neoclassicism, Neo-Baroque, and Rococo, making the cinema a landmark of architectural beauty.
Innovative Firsts: In 1929, Splendid Palace was the first cinema in the Baltic States to showcase a sound film, marking a major milestone in Latvia’s cinematic history.
Name Change and Legacy: Though it was renamed “Riga” in 1952, the cinema regained its original name, Splendid Palace, in 2011, reaffirming its legacy.
🎨 Architectural Highlights
The opulence of Splendid Palace’s interior makes it a unique venue that transports visitors to the golden age of cinema:
The Grand Hall: With seating for up to 500 people, this hall features elegant chandeliers, intricate moldings, and ceiling murals by artist Hermanis Grinbergs.
The Small Hall: Originally a separate cinema called “Spartak,” this hall is now part of Splendid Palace, offering an intimate atmosphere with 200 seats.
These halls retain the ambiance of classic cinema, making each visit a journey into Latvia’s artistic heritage.
🎬 Events and Highlights
Splendid Palace is a dynamic cultural space, hosting a variety of events beyond traditional film screenings:
Riga International Film Festival: As the main venue for this prestigious festival, Splendid Palace attracts cinephiles from all over the world.
Concerts and Performances: The cinema also hosts classical music concerts, theater performances, and ballet shows, catering to diverse tastes.
Special Screenings and Themed Evenings: Visitors can enjoy retrospectives, meet directors and actors, and attend family-friendly screenings designed to engage younger audiences.
🍷 Wine Studio Restaurant – The Perfect Complement
Adjacent to Splendid Palace is the charming Wine Studio, a popular spot for pre- or post-event dining. Known for its exquisite European cuisine and impressive wine selection, Wine Studio provides a cozy setting to unwind and enjoy fine food and wine, making it an ideal complement to a day or night at the cinema.
🌟 Stay Just Minutes Away at MIRO Rooms Center 🌟
For our guests staying at MIRO Rooms Center, Splendid Palace is just a three-minute walk away, making it easy to enjoy a night out without the hassle of transport. With the best of Riga’s cultural scene at your doorstep, MIRO Rooms offers the ideal blend of convenience and comfort. Book your stay with us and make the most of your visit to Riga’s vibrant center! MIRO Rooms – Book your apartment now.