Private Soviet Riga tour
About
This Soviet Riga tour provides a compelling view of life under occupation, grounded in the memories of those who lived it. Our local guides use significant city centre landmarks, such as the imposing Latvian Riflemen Monument and the notorious KGB "Corner House," to share personal accounts and human stories of survival, quiet resistance, and the struggle to maintain Latvian identity right here in the heart of Riga. The tour offers a nuanced understanding of the heavy shadow the Soviet regime
This Soviet Riga tour provides a compelling view of life under occupation, grounded in the memories of those who lived it. Our local guides use significant city centre landmarks, such as the imposing Latvian Riflemen Monument and the notorious KGB "Corner House," to share personal accounts and human stories of survival, quiet resistance, and the struggle to maintain Latvian identity right here in the heart of Riga. The tour offers a nuanced understanding of the heavy shadow the Soviet regime cast and the resilience shown by the people until independence was regained.
Quick info
What's Included
Included
Private tour
Other
Professional guide
Other
Local taxes
Other
Not Included
Gratuities
Fees
Hotel pick-up / drop off
Other
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
In the middle of Latvian rifleman's square, next to the statue of the Latvian riflemen.
End point
The tour finishes at the Daile theatre, approximately 15 min walk to the old town
Itinerary
Private Tour
A brief overview of the Soviet period - the different eras from Stalin to Gorbachev. The history of the Latvian red riflemen and the significance of their monument in the broader discussion of Soviet cultural heritage.
The deportations to Siberia will be discussed - the reason, scale and impact of the deportations will be covered.
The climax of the fight for Latvia's independence - the era of the barricades will be discussed.
The Baltic way - the largest non violent anti Soviet demonstration in the Baltics - will be analysed. The logistics, mood of the time period and impact will be covered.
The monument of freedom - Riga's most iconic monument - it's significance and how it survived the Soviet period.
The Orthodox cathedral - the role and treatment of religion in the Soviet period will be discussed.
Formerly Hotel Latvia - the only hotel where western tourists where allowed to stay in Soviet Riga, the rooms famously bugged by the KGB
Freedom street - formerly Lenin street. The street features examples of Soviet era residential archiecture and Soviet Latvia's most famous fashion house - Rigas Modes.
KGB building. The HQ of the Russian secret police in Latvia - the highest building in Riga - from the top of it you can see all the way to Siberia... KGB recruitment methods, interrogation methods and more will be discussed
Dailes theatre - an iconic example of Soviet era architecture is our final stop. The collapse of the Soviet union will be discussed.
Additional Information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Available Languages
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Refund Schedule
Reviews
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