Hidden in the historic centre of Riga, the synagogue on Peitavas Street is one of the city’s Art Nouveau jewels and an important monument of Jewish cultural heritage. Rich in symbolism and architectural detail, it reflects both the growth of Riga’s Jewish community at the turn of the 20th century and the artistic trends of the era.
At the end of the 19th century, a Jewish parish was established in Old Riga, prompting the need for a new place of worship. Land was purchased, and in 1903 a permit was issued for the construction of the synagogue.
The original design was created by architect Hermann Seuberlich and later refined by the renowned architect and art historian Wilhelm Neumann. An online virtual tour allows visitors to explore the synagogue remotely, showcasing its architectural details, ornamentation and atmosphere.
Why visit
The Riga Synagogue - also known as Peitav-Shul - is a striking example of Art Nouveau architecture and one of the most important Jewish heritage sites in Riga. It is the only synagogue in the city that survived both the Holocaust and the Soviet era and today remains an active place of worship. Inside, visitors can appreciate beautiful historic interiors, symbolic ornamentation and the sense of continuity of Jewish life in Latvia.
Historical highlight
The synagogue was built between 1903 and 1905 by local Jewish community members who had established a congregation in Old Riga at the end of the 19th century. Designed by architects Wilhelm Neumann and Hermann Seuberlich, it combines Art Nouveau style with influences from ancient motifs.
During World War II, when most of Riga’s synagogues were burnt down, this building survived because it was surrounded by other structures and was repurposed as a storage space. After the war and during the Soviet period, it continued to serve as a centre for Jewish life and worship, one of the few active synagogues in the region. Today it stands as both a monument to a once-vibrant community and a centre of Jewish religious and cultural activity.
How to get there
The synagogue is located at Peitavas street 6/8 in Riga’s Old Town. It is within walking distance of major landmarks such as St. Peter’s Church and Town Hall Square. The area is well connected by public transport - buses and trams serving the Old Town stop nearby, and from these stops it is a short walk through the historic streets to the synagogue entrance.