Žanis Lipke Memorial, Riga Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore a moving tribute to Žanis Lipke, a Latvian hero who saved over 50 Jews during WWII. Experience history and reflect on humanity in Riga.

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A brief summary of Žanis Lipke Memorial

Explore a moving tribute to Žanis Lipke, a Latvian hero who saved over 50 Jews during WWII. Experience history and reflect on humanity in Riga.

The Žanis Lipke Memorial in Riga commemorates Žanis Lipke, who risked his life to save more than 50 Jews from the Nazis during World War II. The memorial, built next to Lipke's former home, features an evocative design that reflects the conditions of those hidden in the underground bunker.

4.7 Excellent · 399 Google reviews

Plan your visit

Opening hours

MonClosed
Tue12 pm–6 pm
Wed12 pm–6 pm
Thu12 pm–8 pm
Fri12 pm–6 pm
Sat10 am–4 pm
Sun12 pm–6 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address: Mazais Balasta dambis 9, Kurzemes rajons, Rīga, LV-1048
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Getting there

Walking

From Riga Old Town, cross the Vanšu Bridge over the Daugava River. Once across, turn right onto Balasta dambis and follow the road along the river. Turn left at the Žanis Lipke Memorial sign after Balasta dambis 36. The memorial is at the end of the narrow street. This walk takes approximately 20 minutes.

Public Transport

From the city center, take bus 37, 41, or 53, or minibus 236, 237, or 241 to the Cathedral/Esplanade stop. Alternatively, take trolleybus 12 or 25 from Valdemāra street, or trolleybus 9 from Old Town/Central Station. From the Ķīpsala stop, walk along Mazais Balasta dambis to reach the memorial. A single public transport ticket costs around €1-2.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Riga. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-sharing app like Bolt. Provide the driver with the address: Mazais Balasta dambis 9, Ķīpsala. A taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately €5-10.

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Overview

Located on Ķīpsala Island in Riga, the Žanis Lipke Memorial stands as a powerful tribute to a man who defied Nazi oppression. Žanis Lipke and his family courageously sheltered over 50 Jews in a hidden bunker beneath his woodshed during World War II. The memorial's architecture, designed by Zaiga Gaile, is striking and symbolic. The wooden structure resembles a tarred fisherman's shed or an overturned boat, evoking both the concealment and the hope for survival that Lipke provided. The design also draws parallels to Noah's Ark, representing a vessel of refuge amidst a cataclysm. Inside, visitors can experience the claustrophobic conditions of the bunker and learn about the lives of those who sought shelter there. The memorial features exhibits with photographs, artifacts, and narratives that highlight the resilience of the human spirit. A sukkah, a temporary shelter in Judaism, is built above the bunker, symbolizing divine protection. The memorial aims to explore who Žanis Lipke actually was and serves as a place for reflection and remembrance.

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