Rīga is the capital city of Latvia and is located in the Riga Municipality in the Vidzeme region. It is the largest city in the Baltic states and serves as a major cultural, economic, and political center. Rīga is situated on the banks of the Daugava River, near the Gulf of Riga, making it an important port city. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword. Throughout the centuries, Rīga has been influenced by various cultures, including German, Swedish, Polish, and Russian, which is reflected in its architecture and cultural heritage.