Watch New Europe - Latvia

Discover a New Europe, hidden for half a century behind the Iron Curtain. In 2004, ten new countries joined the European Union. The New Europe series uncovers their natural beauty, unususal history and ethnic cultures. Each episode explores one of the three Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. A knowledgeable off-screen narrator guides an ideal tour of both cities and countrysides. The soundtrack uses only local music, from ancient songs played with knee harps, bagpipes or birchbark horns to the latest jazz and modern music. Uniqe, nearly unknown museums are visited, such as those for bees, horses, witches, paleo-astronomy and Soviet sculptures. Filmed during different seasons. the series highlights the area's natural beauty. Folk holidays are featured, from Mardi Gras to Midsummer, held in striking natural settings, along with folk art and unusual folk beliefs. History is revealed from the Baltic Crusades, when medieval fighting monks battled their local tribes, Europe's last pagans, to the turbulent 20th century's revolutions, Republics and occupations by Nazis and the USSR. Produced by Americans resident in the region with the help of local experts, this series combines a sophisticated Western outlook with sympathetic native knowledge. New Europe - the Baltic States is a pioneering first look at an unknown Europe, of walled medieval towns, of island castles, of centuries old spas and unspoiled seashores.