Riga in the Holocaust Tour

Embark on an enlightening walking tour through the capital of Latvia, where we will explore key memorials dedicated to the Holocaust, while uncovering the harrowing history that Riga faced during this dark period.

Riga's Holocaust History

Our journey begins at the House of the Blackheads Museum, where we will start this insightful Holocaust tour of Riga. Prepare to discover the profound stories woven into the fabric of the city during the harrowing events of World War II.

As we stroll through the streets, our first stop will be the Great Choral Synagogue commemorative memorial, marking the location of the notorious Jewish temple that was set ablaze by the Nazis on July 4th, 1941. This tragic act resulted in the deaths of numerous Jewish individuals and is recognized as the initiation of the Holocaust in Latvia.

Continuing our path, we will reach the old Jewish Quarter, a section of Riga that the Nazis forced Jewish families into during this grim phase of history. This area was heavily fenced with barbed wire and patrolled by the Latvian army under German control, with horrific orders to shoot anyone who attempted to flee.

During our visit, we will also pause to discuss the old Jewish cemetery in close proximity. After the war, this cemetery was transformed into a public park, with the only memory of its somber past being the imposing stone wall adorned with the Star of David.

After two hours of exploring these significant historical narratives, we will conclude our tour at Peitav Shul, the only active synagogue in Latvia. This revered place remains a center for the local Jewish community, uniting over 7,000 individuals for worship.