Cat House

Cat House

In Riga Old Town, there is only one building whose roof does not feature a rooster but a black cat, and it is known as the “Cat House.” In many European countries, since the Middle Ages, black cats have been regarded as symbols of the devil and omens of misfortune. Yet this black cat stands proudly atop the roof, and such an interesting building naturally has an interesting story.

The owner of the Cat House was once an extremely wealthy German merchant in the area. However, due to his improper conduct, he was denied membership in the prestigious “Great Guild” merchants’ association. Out of indignation, he built this luxurious mansion right across from the guild. At the top of the two high towers on either side of the house, he placed two black cats with arched backs and raised tails, resembling angry felines. Even more defiantly, he positioned the cats so that their rears faced the “House of the Great Guild,” using this insulting gesture to express his displeasure with the guild. This act, of course, provoked strong protests from the guild. Eventually, the dispute was mediated by the court, and an agreement was reached between the guild and the owner of the Cat House: the building would be preserved, but the orientation of the cats’ tails was changed so that their heads faced the guild.

Looking at the black cats on the yellow building in the sunlight, nowadays neither the owner of the Cat House nor the guild exists anymore. The past grudges and disputes have now turned into a popular topic of conversation and a unique ancient building, left for foreign visitors to ponder and enjoy, while also adding a lot of fun to the travel experience.

Cat House

Must-visit reason: One of the most unique buildings in Riga Old Town

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Latvia[Latvia]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Riga [Riga]

City where the attraction is located: Riga [Riga]