Bastejkalns (Bastion Hill), Riga's second highest hill at a towering 16m (52ft) above sea level, is on the other side of the canal. It may not be tall by European standards, but it did not even exist before the 1860s. When the city's ancient walls and ramparts were demolished, a place in which to store the debris was needed. The creation of a park with a scenic hill at its centre seemed like a logical idea, and Bas­tion Hill was born.
Several paths lead to the top, which provides excellent views of  
the surrounding sights in the winter months. During the summer, however, hundred-year-old trees obscure many of the vistas. The park has been remodelled over the years, and some of its fortified slopes are adorned with ancient treasures that became casualties of war. Cannons, limestone busts and other curiosities recovered from damaged buildings following World War II were embedded in its walls for posterity.