Riga's Jewish Heritage
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Port
Riga, Latvia
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$140
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Riga's Jewish community dates back to the 15th century, and more than 44,000 Jews were living in Riga by 1935. However, just five years later, the Soviet Union's Red Army entered Riga and arrested leading Jewish political and religious leaders, followed by Nazi atrocities. This poignant tour showcases the Jews' incredible stories and unforgettable history.
Depart the pier for a panoramic drive through Riga's city center. The Big Choral Synagogue, built in 1868, was the biggest and most beautiful synagogue in Riga, famous for its singers, cantors and choir. After being nearly destroyed by a Nazi attack that killed hundreds, see the remnants of the synagogue and the memorial commemorating those who perished.
Continue past the Jewish Hospital and the Old Jewish Cemetery, now a park. The Jews in Riga built a cemetery in 1725, which the Nazis later destroyed. When the Soviets occupied Riga after World War II, they relocated all the graves and converted the cemetery into a park.
Drive to the outskirts of Rumbula Forest, where more than 25,000 European Jews were executed by the Nazis in 1941. The path where thousands of Jews walked to their deaths holds a memorial stone detailing the horrors.
Your tour concludes with a return to Old Town and a short walking tour, during which you will see the only functioning synagogue in Riga and visit its reconstructed premises.
Please note: Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The synagogue is closed to visitors on Saturdays; a visit to the Zanis Lipke Museum will be substituted.