The cat from FLOW: Not just a global star, but also a pride of Riga
Latvia's cinematic landscape has reached new heights with the animated film Flow, directed by Gints Zilbalodis. This groundbreaking feature has garnered international acclaim, notably winning the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature on January 5, 2025, marking a historic first for Latvian cinema.
Flow is a dialogue-free narrative that follows a solitary black cat navigating a post-apocalyptic world submerged by a catastrophic flood. The protagonist's journey is enriched by encounters with other animals, including a Labrador, a capybara, a lemur, and a secretary bird. Together, they traverse a lush, overgrown landscape devoid of human presence, emphasizing themes of survival, cooperation, and the resilience of nature.
In the heart of Riga's Old Town stands the legendary Cat House, a building adorned with two majestic cat silhouettes on its roof. These felines symbolize independence and elegance, perfectly echoing the spirit of the black cat from Flow, now a global icon.
The Cat House, designed by the architect Friedrich Schefel, was built in 1909. Friedrich Schefel and Heinrich Scheel.
The architecture of Riga's Old Town is full of surprises, and if you look closely, you'll find that the Cat House isn't the only place where these graceful animals reside. Cat motifs can be spotted on building facades, window frames, and even intricate rooftop details, adding a whimsical and magical touch to the city. Visiting Latvia and embarking on a "cat hunt" through the narrow streets of Riga is an adventure not to be missed! Discovering all the hidden cats feels like uncovering a secret treasure map of architectural wonders, uniquely showcasing the city's charm.
The sculpture Bremen Town Musicians in Old Riga. Photo creator: Aivars Gulbis.
The exact number of cat motifs in Riga's architecture is not officially documented, but it is known that there are at least a few dozen. The most famous are the two cats on the roof of the Cat House, which have become a city symbol. However, keen observers can spot cat or lion sculptures, reliefs, and other artistic representations on facades and architectural details in various parts of Riga, especially in the Old Town and the Art Nouveau district.
Art Nouveau architecture in Riga. Photo creator: LiveRiga
The lion sculpture on the building facade (Rātslaukums 7). Photo creator: Aivars Gulbis.
For those who enjoy such "hunts," finding as many of these details as possible can be a fun challenge, as some artistic representations are hidden higher up on buildings or in more subtle locations. Discovering these details turns into a kind of detective game and offers a unique way to explore Riga from a different perspective.
Riga, Jēkaba Street. Photo creator: Aivars Gulbis.
Spring is just around the corner, and nature will soon awaken, inviting everyone to explore Latvia's rivers and embrace the beauty of the outdoors. Much like in the film Flow, where lush landscapes and flowing waters tell a story of renewal, Latvia's rivers beckon adventurers to paddle through their serene and vibrant scenery.
Let the coming season inspire you to connect with nature and experience the magic of Latvia’s untamed wilderness.