Riga's Jewish Heritage

This poignant four-hour tour showcases the unforgettable history of Riga's Jewish community. After boarding your air-conditioned motor coach you'll drive to the remains of Big Choral Synagogue. Built in 1868, it was the biggest and most beautiful synagogue in Riga and famous for its singers, cantors and choir. At the beginning of World War II, it became a death trap when German soldiers forced over 300 Jews into the basement and threw grenades into the windows. Remnants of the synagogue still stand just few feet away from the large gray memorial commemorating those who perished. The bus will pass by the Old Jewish Cemetery. After its destruction by Nazis, the Soviets converted it into a park. Continuing on, your coach will drive to to Rumbula forest, where more than 25,000 European Jews were executed in 1941. Then see the only functioning synagogue in Riga.