On Saturday, an open event dedicated to the Day of the Armed Forces of Spain took place in Old Riga. Residents and tourists were shown military equipment, informed about the service of Spanish soldiers in Latvia, and offered to try paella.
A section of Kalku Street in Old Riga turned into a venue for the Spanish military celebration on Saturday. The event, dedicated to the Day of the Armed Forces of Spain, took place between the 11th November Embankment and the Town Hall Square.
Visitors were able to see samples of military equipment, interact with representatives of the Spanish contingent, and learn about the weaponry used in NATO missions. The exhibition featured Leopard 2E tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems, and firearms.
Particular interest was shown by the residents in the opportunity to get up close to the equipment and talk with the soldiers, who shared stories about their service in Latvia and demonstrated their gear.
At the same time, a field kitchen was operating nearby, where guests were treated to paella — one of the most famous dishes of Spanish cuisine. Lines formed at the stalls, and some visitors chose to dine right on the steps and in front of the buildings of the Old Town.
The Spanish embassy previously noted that the Day of the Armed Forces in the country is traditionally celebrated on the Saturday closest to May 30. The main goal of such events is to showcase the everyday work of the army and its participation in international missions.
For Latvia, this holiday has a separate context. Spanish military personnel have been in the country for nine years as part of NATO's enhanced presence. During this time, the number of Spanish troops has nearly doubled — from about 350 to more than 600 servicemen.
It is also important to note that previously such events were mainly held at or near military bases. This year, the celebration was decided to be held in the center of Riga for the first time and made open to the general public.
Throughout the day, a large number of people remained in the streets of the Old Town, and military equipment became one of the most photographed parts of the event.
