The monument to Māris Liepa in Riga is a tribute to one of the most important ballet dancers in Latvia and the Soviet Union. Māris Liepa, born in Riga in 1936, was an outstanding artist who shone on both the national and international stages. He became particularly well-known for his performances at the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow, where he impressed audiences in classical ballets such as Swan Lake and Spartacus. His portrayal of Crassus in Spartacus is considered one of his most iconic roles.
After his active career as a dancer, Liepa remained closely connected to the world of ballet, including as artistic director of the National Opera in Sofia and through his own creative projects. His contribution to the ballet world is honored to this day, including through the annual Māris Liepa Memorial in Riga, organized by his children.
Erected in 2013 on the bank of the city canal, the monument, created by artists Jaan Toomik and Jüri Ojaver, depicts Liepa in a dynamic pose symbolizing his elegant and powerful stage presence. The monument was realized through donations and is a popular spot for visitors to the city who wish to appreciate both Liepa's artistic and historical significance.