[1] The church is dedicated to St John the Baptist and contains several art works related to the saint, including a large painting on the north side of the crossing, and a stained glass window depicting the saint, to the right (south) of the high altar.

The church is built on the site of the bishop's palace of Albert of Riga (thirteenth century).

In 1234 Dominican friars took responsibility for the original small chapel and dedicated it to John the Baptist.

The church suffered severe damage in Riga's great city fire of 31 May 1677, but was repaired, with a new spire added.

The church is also used as a concert venue, due to its large size and good acoustic properties.