From The CEO, Cheri Levitan
In March, I visited Lithuania and Latvia
As the child of Polish Holocaust survivors, I learned about my ancestors’ lives in the Pale of Settlement. “The Pale” was a bordered area in the western part of the Russian Empire in which all Jews of the area (with only a few exceptions) were forced to live, study, and work between the years of 1791 and 1917. During that time, under the harsh treatment of the Russian tzars, Yiddish, yeshivot, and social welfare organizations were born. I often wondered what life was like back then and how families survived at all.
Today, remnants of “the Pale” and shtetl life still can be seen in movies like Fiddler on the Roof and experienced through visits of the seven countries that made up that geographic area: Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Belarus, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. But on this recent visit to Lithuania and Latvia, we also invested the time to explore and learn about the opportunities and challenges these Jewish communities and their members face today. The history and stories are captivating.
We want to share the past and present with you. Let Kenes Tours take you to the Baltics – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – for a once-in-a-lifetime, up-close and personal, glimpse into a world gone by…A world that now stands beside a new story of independence, international recognition, and solidarity with Israel.
Lithuania
Discover Lithuania, a captivating hidden gem nestled in Northern Europe’s Baltic region. With its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, it beckons Jewish travelers from around the world. For those seeking to reconnect with their Jewish heritage in particular, Lithuania holds profound importance. This country, where one of the world’s oldest languages is spoken, is renowned for its tasty potato dishes.
More importantly, Lithuania boasts a profoundly rich Jewish heritage. Before the Holocaust, Lithuanian Jews, known as Litvaks, thrived as influential businessmen, scholars, and professionals. Vilnius, the capital, was once home to about 250,000 Jews, comprising 45% of its population. Today, exploring Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town reveals echoes of its vibrant Jewish community, once home to over 100 synagogues. Among them, the Choral Synagogue, erected in 1903 and still active, stands as a solemn testament to the resilience of Lithuania’s Jewish identity.
During our inspection trip, our team visited significant sites, such as the Ponary Memorial, Rudninku Forest, and The Ninth Fort, which pay tribute to the hundreds of thousands of Jews who were massacred, imprisoned, and tortured there.
Join Kenes Tours to savor the region’s culinary delights, indulge in luxurious accommodations, and develop ties to Lithuania’s Jewish community. Let us guide you through an enriching journey, bridging the past and present in this remarkable country.
Latvia
Did you know that more than half of Latvia is covered by forests? Lush landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Nestled between Lithuania and Estonia, Latvia offers a tranquil escape. Riga, the picturesque capital, beckons with its renowned Art Nouveau architecture along with the city’s rich cultural heritage. Yet, beyond its urban allure lies a poignant history that is deeply intertwined with the Jewish community. Today, Riga boasts the largest Jewish population among the Baltic states.
Explore Bikernieki and Rumbula Forests, memorial sites that expose Latvia’s tumultuous past and remind visitors that thousands of Jews were murdered here during the Nazi occupation. Yet despite the dark shadow of history, a resilient Jewish community thrives in Latvia, with approximately 4,500 members embracing traditions and cultural pursuits. The Peitav Synagogue stands as a beacon of resilience, embodying the enduring spirit of the country’s Jewish heritage.
In a remarkable reversal of roles, younger Latvian Jews now educate their elders on Jewish customs, holidays, and prayers. Riga’s Jewish community is flourishing; boasting schools, an active JCC, and a Jewish newspaper. The community looks toward a promising future.
Join Kenes Tours as we unveil the untold stories of Latvia’s Jewish legacy, immersing you in the country’s rich tapestry of history and culture. From chic eateries to captivating art galleries, experience the charm of Riga’s medieval Old Town while forging connections with the resilient Jewish community.
Estonia
While exploring the Baltic wonders of Lithuania and Latvia, consider rounding out your journey with a visit to Estonia, the smallest of the trio. With approximately 1,950 Jews, Estonia boasts a passionate Jewish community. Amidst its picturesque landscapes, you’ll discover the unexpected: an ultra-modern glass and concrete Synagogue! It proudly stands alongside schools, youth programs, a Jewish Museum, and a Kosher restaurant – all conveniently nestled next to the synagogue.
As you think about planning your trip to the Baltics, you also may want to consider more immediate summer travel opportunities.
For information on travel to the countries above, contact Adam Mazo, Director of Overseas Sales – adamma@kenes-tours.com
To learn about Kenes’ global Jewish travel opportunities, click HERE.
