The main building of the University of Latvia is located in a strategically important place in the very center of Riga - at 19 Raina boulevard. It was built in 1869, i.e. 50 years before the establishment of the University of Latvia. The author of the project was architect Gustavs Hilbigs.
In the twists and turns of history, the Raina boulevard 19 building played an important role in the formation of the University, however, looking to the future, the possibilities for development in this densely built-up neighborhood are limited.
Already the main driving forces of the University have been looking for a place to supplement the historical with the new - to allow the University to expand in the breadth of its scientific capacity. Several years ago, the choice was made in favor of the construction of the UL Academic Centre in Tornakalns.
University of Latvia Academic Centre (known as "Campus" in other countries) is a guideline that guides our Latvia, which will not be among the chasers, but among the leaders. Transforming the ideas of scientists into quality of life and big data management solutions, being at the top of the next wave of technological and economic development and regaining the position of innovation leader on the shores of the Baltic Sea that Riga lost 100 years ago.
UL rector prof. Gundars Bērziņš: "The Academic Centre is the main driving force in building the knowledge mile in Riga. Tornakalns campus already has the most modern study and research environment in the Baltics, where almost 90% of the University's students and employees will be concentrated after the opening of the House of Letters. This not only confirms the strategic vision and rapid development of UL, but also makes a significant contribution to the creation of a knowledge society and a high added value economy. The status of the Academic Centre as an object of national interest is a confirmation that we are the country's strategic partner on the way to prosperity and sustainability."
