Vermane Garden, Riga

Vērmane Garden stands as the oldest public garden in Riga, spanning approximately 5 hectares (12 acres). It was originally established in 1814 as Wöhrmann Park, named after its patrons Johann Christoph Wöhrmann, the Prussian Consul General, and his mother Anna Gertrud Wöhrmann. The park was founded on the outskirts of Riga following its devastation during the French invasion of Russia.

Initially opened in 1817, the garden covered 0.8 hectares (2 acres) and featured exotic trees, a rose garden, and a restaurant. An obelisk was erected in 1829 as a tribute to Anna Wöhrmann, which was later dismantled before World War II and recreated in 2000. In 1836, a mineral water shop was added to the park, and expansions in the mid-19th century brought in new features such as a sundial and a fountain.

The garden's most significant transformation occurred under Georg Kuphaldt in 1881 when he expanded the garden's area by incorporating parts of city squares and adjacent territories. During this expansion, Kuphaldt introduced a variety of exotic flora, including species like the Honey locust, Japanese angelica tree, various types of beeches and maples, as well as the Magnolia obovata and Magnolia yulan. Other notable plantings included the Black locust, Caucasian wingnut, Cherry laurel, European box, and several others, enhancing the park's botanical diversity and beauty.

Today, Vērmane Garden serves as a cherished green space in Riga, blending historical legacy with rich botanical variety, providing a tranquil escape for both residents and visitors of the city.