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Undergoing substantial alterations, the signifying guild of Riga will experience significant transformations over a two-year period.

Rebuilding timeline for the Great Guild concert hall set; Latvian Television reveals another delay in restoring the historical music venue...

Riga's prestigious Great Guild to experience significant transformations within the next two years
Riga's prestigious Great Guild to experience significant transformations within the next two years

Undergoing substantial alterations, the signifying guild of Riga will experience significant transformations over a two-year period.

The Great Guild, a historic building in Latvia, is undergoing a significant renovation project. The project, which has received the necessary funding, is set to transform the building and provide a new home for the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra (LNSO).

Minister of Culture Agnese Logina (Progressives) has set a strict deadline for the project, aiming for completion by spring 2026. Zane Koroļa, an acclaimed architect, will lead the reconstruction efforts.

One of the key features to be preserved during the reconstruction is the staircase designed by Modris Ģelzis. Not only the main staircase but also the one at the staff entrance will remain intact. The staircases are an essential part of the building's history and character, and their preservation is a testament to the respect for the building's past.

The renovation will also include the installation of an elevator, making the building more accessible for all. The hall interior will be rebuilt completely, with a focus on exposing natural materials and original solutions. After the reconstruction, accents from previous centuries on different floors of the building will be highlighted, adding to its historical charm.

The seating and capacity of the hall will increase, providing a more comfortable experience for the audience. The loggia, another significant architectural element, will also be preserved during the reconstruction.

Rehearsals for the LNSO will start in July at the House of Congress hall, while the move to the renovated Great Guild is scheduled for June, during musicians' holidays. The exact date for the first concerts in the renovated building is not yet confirmed, but current forecasts predict that they will take place in autumn 2026.

The Ministry has raised European funds for the project, with a total investment of EUR 14.5 million. The renovation project will be handled by SIA "RERE MEISTARI".

This renovation project is an exciting step forward for the LNSO and the Great Guild. The goal is to create a modern, accessible, and historically rich space that will serve as a cultural hub for Latvia and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative project.

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