Latvia’s Jewish cultural heritage is an important part of the country’s diverse identity, especially in Riga, where a rich and dynamic community has developed over centuries. Today, this heritage can be explored through architecture, religious sites, museums, urban spaces, and memorial locations.
Riga offers visitors the opportunity to discover Jewish life across different periods - from historic synagogues and cultural institutions to sites that preserve the memory of the tragic events of the 20th century. At the same time, an active Jewish community continues to thrive in the city, maintaining traditions, celebrating holidays, and preserving its cultural legacy.
This guide will help you explore the most significant places and experiences that reveal the presence of Jewish culture in Riga and Latvia - past and present.
Riga Synagogue “Peitav Shul”
Riga Synagogue “Peitav Shul”, located in the Old Town on Peitavas Street, is one of the most important centres of Jewish religious and cultural life in Latvia. It is the only synagogue in Riga that has survived to the present day and continues to function, bringing the community together and preserving religious traditions.
Jewish Museums in Riga
Museums in Riga offer deeper insight into the history, culture, and experiences of Jews in Latvia across different periods. They serve as important centres of memory and learning, presenting everyday life, personal stories, and authentic testimonies alongside the tragic events of the 20th century. Visiting these museums provides a meaningful way to better understand Jewish cultural heritage in Latvia and its significance in contemporary society.
Holocaust Memorial Sites
Riga and its surrounding areas are home to several significant Holocaust memorial sites that preserve the memory of the tragic events of World War II and the victims who lost their lives. These include former ghetto territories, cemeteries, mass execution sites, and memorials. These places offer insight into one of the most difficult chapters of history while also serving as spaces for remembrance and reflection. Visiting them provides an opportunity to honor the victims and better understand the lasting impact of these events today.
Certified Guides in Riga - Jewish Cultural Heritage Experts
Riga is home to certified tour guides with specialized expertise in Jewish cultural heritage, offering visitors meaningful insights into this important part of the city’s history. These guides have completed dedicated training and lead professional tours across key Jewish heritage sites in Riga. Visitors can choose from private and group tours in multiple languages, tailored to different interests and levels of depth. This section features a list of certified guides (past and present) with contact details, as well as information on tour agencies offering curated Jewish heritage programs for groups.