Key geographical characteristics include:
Posted: Sat May 24, 2025 10:55 am
Where is Latvia? Pinpointing the Baltic Gem of Northern Europe
Latvia, a name that evokes images of amber, lush forests, and historic cities, holds a significant position on the map of Europe. Nestled strategically along the Baltic Sea, it is one of the three "Baltic States," a region with a unique cultural identity and a fascinating history. Understanding where Latvia is geographically helps to appreciate its rich past, vibrant present, and its role in the modern European landscape.
A Northern European Location on the Baltic Sea
Latvia is officially located in Northern Europe, specifically in the Baltic region. Its western coastline stretches along the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga, providing it with crucial maritime access and influencing its climate and culture latvia phone number list This strategic position has historically made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between Eastern and Western Europe.
To pinpoint Latvia on a map, imagine the northeastern corner of the European continent. It sits precisely in the middle of the three Baltic States:
To its North: Lies Estonia, its closest Baltic sibling, with whom it shares strong historical and cultural ties.
To its South: Is Lithuania, the largest of the Baltic States, also sharing a deep Baltic heritage.
To its East: Latvia borders the Russian Federation, a significant and historically complex frontier.
To its Southeast: It shares a border with Belarus.
Across the Baltic Sea to the West: Lies Sweden, making it a maritime neighbor and linking it further to Scandinavia.
Geographical Features and Landscape
Latvia's geography is characterized by its relatively flat, low-lying plains, which were largely shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age. While generally flat, there are some gentle undulations and low hills, particularly in the eastern parts of the country, such as the Central Vidzeme Upland. The highest point in Latvia is Gaiziņkalns, which reaches a modest elevation of 312 meters (1,024 feet) above sea level.
Latvia, a name that evokes images of amber, lush forests, and historic cities, holds a significant position on the map of Europe. Nestled strategically along the Baltic Sea, it is one of the three "Baltic States," a region with a unique cultural identity and a fascinating history. Understanding where Latvia is geographically helps to appreciate its rich past, vibrant present, and its role in the modern European landscape.
A Northern European Location on the Baltic Sea
Latvia is officially located in Northern Europe, specifically in the Baltic region. Its western coastline stretches along the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga, providing it with crucial maritime access and influencing its climate and culture latvia phone number list This strategic position has historically made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between Eastern and Western Europe.
To pinpoint Latvia on a map, imagine the northeastern corner of the European continent. It sits precisely in the middle of the three Baltic States:
To its North: Lies Estonia, its closest Baltic sibling, with whom it shares strong historical and cultural ties.
To its South: Is Lithuania, the largest of the Baltic States, also sharing a deep Baltic heritage.
To its East: Latvia borders the Russian Federation, a significant and historically complex frontier.
To its Southeast: It shares a border with Belarus.
Across the Baltic Sea to the West: Lies Sweden, making it a maritime neighbor and linking it further to Scandinavia.
Geographical Features and Landscape
Latvia's geography is characterized by its relatively flat, low-lying plains, which were largely shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age. While generally flat, there are some gentle undulations and low hills, particularly in the eastern parts of the country, such as the Central Vidzeme Upland. The highest point in Latvia is Gaiziņkalns, which reaches a modest elevation of 312 meters (1,024 feet) above sea level.