Daugavpils, a state city in southeastern Latvia, located on the banks of the Daugava River, from which the city derives its name, a centre with a rich mix of culture (Latvian, Polish, Russian), highlighted by historic architecture, the massive Daugavpils Fortress, various Catholic and Orthodox churches, the extensive Dubrovin Park, famous for its strong ties with Mark Rothko, a key figure in Abstract Expressionism visible in the Mark Rothko Art Center has been recognized by UNESCO as a city of design.
The Latvian city officially joint the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2025 earning the title of “City of Design”, leveraging its rich industrial heritage, a unique architectural blend featuring a rare unified ensemble of Classicist, Eclectic, Art Nouveau and Latgale Baroque styles in its historical centre showcasing Latvia’s architectural diversity.
Further highlights of Daugavpils is the relevant presence of wooden houses with intricately carved shutters in the Forstad area, next to its iconic fortress, a vast, well - preserved 19th century bastion fortress with Empire - style buildings, Gothic gates and an extensive military history, all set amidst ample water bodies and green spaces, creating a unique atmosphere rooted in its diverse past, all elements that consolidate the city as a very creative hub.
Boasting a vibrant art scene with epicentre Rothko Center, located within the fortress, Daugavpils is the only place in Europe with original Rothko paintings, making art central to the city’s identity, and highlighted by a focus on innovation and technology, elevating the city a cross - border hub for culture and economic development through design in the modern era.
Daugavpils combines historical significance with modern aspirations, using design as a tool to enhance its multicultural environment, attract investment, and develop creative industries.
From the detailed carved shutters on wooden homes, buildings with colourful glazed tiles and intricate details, showcasing the work of architects like Wilhelm Naumann to the retro tech in its industrial museums, design is woven into the city’s identity and future plans, making it a multifaceted design destination.
Key Aspects of Daugavpils’s Design Identity:
• UNESCO Designation: Added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2025 specifically for Design.
• Industrial Heritage: The “Engineering Arsenal” features retro vehicles and industrial design, showcasing the Latvian city’s technological history.
• Architectural Diversity: A mix of Art Nouveau, Baroque, Classicist historical St. Petersburg - influenced layouts, and traditional wooden houses creates a unique urban fabric.
• Cultural Hub: Home to Mark Rothko Art Centre and various artistic events, fostering contemporary art and design.
• Focus on Innovation: Aims to become an accessible centre for culture, science and education, promoting design for high quality of life.
Nowadays the city hosts various art spaces, museums, and galleries, showcasing local talent and cultural influences, from traditional art to modern digital design.
Daugavpils University offers design programs, covering areas like graphic design, technical graphics, and photo art, integrating cultural and biological themes.
Finally, the Norrskog studio created a new visual identity for Daugavpils, featuring a dynamic logo and slogan that celebrates the city’s multiculturalism and heritage.
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