ラトビア

大陸	ヨーロッパ
資本金	Riga
人口	1,965,686
GDP	$50.65 Billion
一人当たりGDP	$25,700
ダイヤルコード	+371
ISOコード（2文字）	LV
ISOコード（3文字）	LVA

Latvia Landscapes

About Latvia

Welcome to Latvia, a nation where ancient Baltic traditions meet modern European innovation. With approximately 1.9 million people occupying 64,589 square kilometers, Latvia combines remarkable cultural heritage with pristine nature, standing as a bridge between Northern and Eastern Europe.

地理的特徴と自然の美しさ

Latvia’s geography encompasses diverse landscapes, from the Baltic Sea coastline with its white sand beaches to vast forests covering nearly half the country. The terrain is predominantly flat, with the highest point, Gaiziņkalns, reaching just 312 meters above sea level.

The landscape includes over 12,000 rivers, 3,000 small lakes, and extensive wetlands. The country’s four distinct seasons create ever-changing natural scenery, from spring floods in the ancient Gauja Valley to autumn colors in the vast forests.

Protected areas include Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest and oldest national park, and the unique Slītere National Park, preserving ancient Baltic Sea shorelines. The country’s commitment to environmental protection has resulted in some of Europe’s cleanest air and most pristine natural environments.

文化遺産と伝統

Latvian culture is deeply rooted in folk traditions, particularly the Dainas – ancient folk songs of which over 1.2 million texts have been collected. The country’s heritage includes distinctive choral singing traditions, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Traditional arts include intricate textile weaving, particularly the Lielvārde belt with its ancient symbolic patterns, and sophisticated metalwork. The Song and Dance Festival, held every five years, brings together thousands of performers in one of the world’s largest choral events.

Latvian cuisine features traditional dishes like grey peas with bacon, dark rye bread, and various forest products including berries and mushrooms. The celebration of the summer solstice, Jāņi, remains one of the most important cultural events.

歴史の旅

Latvia’s history spans from ancient Baltic tribes through various periods of foreign rule to its modern independence. The country’s strategic location has made it a crossroads of different cultures and powers throughout history.

Significant periods include the medieval Livonian period, Swedish rule, Russian imperial control, first independence in 1918, Soviet occupation, and the restoration of independence in 1991. Latvia’s successful integration into the European Union and NATO marks its return to the Western community of nations.

現代の経済状況

Today’s Latvian economy combines traditional strengths in transit and agriculture with growing sectors in IT, green technology, and creative industries. The country has become a regional hub for startups and digital innovation.

Recent initiatives focus on digital transformation, sustainable development, and innovation in smart technologies. Latvia’s strategic location and well-developed infrastructure support its position as a key Baltic business center.

国際関係とグローバルポジション

Latvia maintains active participation in the European Union and NATO while serving as a bridge between Western Europe and the Baltic region. The country’s expertise in cybersecurity and digital governance contributes to international cooperation.

ご存知でしたか？

• Latvia has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world?

• The country has the highest proportion of women in senior management positions in Europe?

• Riga, the capital, is home to the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world?

• Latvia’s flag is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the 13th century?

結論

Latvia represents a unique combination of natural heritage and modern innovation. From its ancient folk traditions to its digital achievements, from its pristine forests to its vibrant cities, Latvia continues to evolve while preserving its distinctive cultural identity. As it addresses challenges including demographic change and economic development, Latvia remains committed to sustainable growth while maintaining its unique Baltic heritage.