Akadēmiskais centrsThe University of Latvia was founded in 1919 on the basis of the former Riga Polytechnic (founded in 1862). In 1923 this school received its present name - the University of Latvia (Universitas Latviensis). The former building of Riga Polytechnic is located at 19 Raina Boulevard and serves as the symbol of the University even nowadays.
With Latvia regaining freedom the Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia confirmed the Constitution of the University of Latvia in 1991. It stated that the Higher School is "a state establishment of academic education, science and culture which serves the needs of Latvia and people".
University of Latvia integrates diverse fields of research and studies with creative initiative to provide higher education of European standard, to cultivate the Latvian language and traditions of cultural cooperation.