“Battle of Riga — 100. A View from German Positions”

To commemorate the dramatic events at the end of World War I, which unfolded in early September near Ikšķile, the Ogre History and Art Museum opened an exhibition titled “Battle for Riga — 100. A View from German Positions”.

The exhibition showcased rare, previously unexhibited photographic materials captured by German soldiers and photojournalists — including trenches and daily life in the camp, the crossing of the Daugava River and battle scenes, the entry of troops into the ruined Ogre, and an army parade attended by German Emperor Wilhelm II. The harsh reality of war was further illuminated by newsreel footage, everyday objects, and weaponry found in the combat zone.

Soldiers who fell in the Battle of Riga are buried in several military cemeteries in the vicinity of Ikšķile, as well as in the military cemetery in Ogre, on Čakste Avenue. Here lie 120 German army and 260 Russian army soldiers who perished on September 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

On the opening day of the exhibition, we visited the military cemetery in Ogre, on Čakste Avenue, commemorating the soldiers who fell in battle.