Riga Cathedral consecrates three bells to restore historic sound

Riga Cathedral has consecrated three new bells that will join its existing bells and restore its historic sound after more than 110 years, LSM reported. Donors funded the bells’ installation.

Most of the cathedral’s historic bells were taken to Russia during the First World War. Only one of the four removed from the cathedral returned to Latvia after the peace treaty between Latvia and Soviet Russia, retired Archbishop Jānis Vanags said at the consecration service.

The returned bell remained in use until January 13, 1991, when it cracked as it called people to a nationwide demonstration on the Daugava embankment.

Made in Germany by the Rincker bell foundry, which has operated since 1590, the new bells are named Jānis, Gabriels and Marija. The largest weighs nearly three tonnes; the other two weigh about two and a half tonnes and one and a half tonnes. They are inspired by the historic bells but are not copies.

Riga Cathedral restoration head Ronalds Lūsis said the bells would add to the range and richness of the sound from the cathedral tower. The cost had long delayed the project, which was made possible by donations.