The past and present of Kipsala

KIPSALA
Area - 1.975 km2 (0.763 sq mi)
Population (2008) – 817
Density - 410/km2 (1,100/sq mi)
Kipsala is an island on the left bank of the Daugava River. It is part of the protected buffer zone of Riga’s historic center, which is a member of the UNESCO World Heritage List. The United Nations has deemed these sites “of outstanding universal value,” deserving of special preservation/conservation care.

HISTORY OF KIPSALA
Kipsala acquired its present configuration in the early 20th century, when the remains of the nearby tributaries were filled in. As a result, Kipsala, formerly Zagarsala—an elderly fisherman named Zagars allegedly lived here in the 18th century—was joined with Peldu Island (now the upper end of Kipsala, near Agenskalns Bay), and Lesser Kliversala (now between Kipsala’s Azenes and Kaiju Streets). Earlier still, Kipsala assimilated Darvas Island, which had housed the city’s tar storehouses and included a plot of land belonging to a family of fishermen named Kipis.

The romantic ambiance of Kipsala Island has been a source of inspiration for artists and poets since the beginning of the 20th century. Aleksandrs Caks lauded it in rhyme, Hilda Vika painted it and made it home for a time, and Pavils Rozitis dedicated an eighty-line poem to Balasta Dam.

Lifestyle
DINING
Restaurants: Hercogs, Ostas, Reykjavik, Arctic Lights
WELLNESS & SPORTS
IslandeSPA Beauty and Wellness, Kipsala Swimming Pool and Sports Center
SHOPPING
Olimpia Shopping Center
ENTERTAINMENT
Private Marina, KLIPS-B Boat and Marine Center, Islande Bowling Club, Kipsala International Exhibition Center

Links
Information:
http://www.gipsafabrika.lv/en/location/history-of-kipsala
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%B6%C4%ABpsala
Pictures:
http://www.bt1.lv
http://forum.myriga.info
https://sputniknewslv.com