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Jelgava Forest Memorial Site: A Place of Remembrance

Reflect on history at the Jelgava Forest Memorial Site, a serene and significant landmark honoring the Jewish victims of 1941.

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The Jelgava Forest Memorial Site, located in Jelgava, Latvia, commemorates the Jewish victims of 1941. This tranquil site within the Jelgava Forest offers a space for reflection on a tragic period of history. Visitors can explore the serene environment and connect with the past through understated memorials.

A brief summary to Jelgava, the Jelgava Forest, Memorial Site of 1941 Jewish Victims, Latvia

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the forest paths.
  • Visit during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience.
  • Take time to read the information plaques to fully appreciate the historical context.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as the site is outdoors.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Jelgava city center, take a bus towards the outskirts of the city. Check local bus schedules at the Jelgava bus station or online for the latest routes and timings. The cost is approximately €1.50 if paying cash, or €0.85 with a credit card. From the nearest bus stop to Jelgava Forest, walk approximately 1-2 kilometers into the forest to reach the memorial site.

  • Walking

    From Jelgava city center, start on Zālītes iela and follow it as it leads into the Jelgava Forest. The total walking distance is approximately 5 kilometers one way. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The trail may not be well-marked, so a map or GPS may be helpful.

  • Car

    From the center of Jelgava, head southeast on Zālītes iela toward the Jelgava Forest Memorial Site. The address is Zālītes iela 7, Jelgava, LV-3001. Follow the signs leading to the forest area. Parking is available nearby, but a short walk may be necessary to reach the memorial site. Parking availability may be limited.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Jelgava and can be found on the street or by calling a taxi service. A taxi ride from the city center to the Jelgava Forest Memorial Site will cost approximately €8-€12. Ride-sharing services like Bolt are also available.

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Discover more about Jelgava, the Jelgava Forest, Memorial Site of 1941 Jewish Victims, Latvia

The Jelgava Forest Memorial Site stands as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust in Latvia. In July 1941, the German army entered Jelgava, and arrests of Jewish people began. The Great Synagogue was burned, and Jews were forced to resettle on the outskirts of the city. The eradication action took place in the second half of July 1941, at the shooting range of the former 3rd Jelgava Infantry Regiment of the Latvian Army. Today, the Jelgava Forest provides a natural setting for contemplation and remembrance. Two monuments mark the site of the massacres. One, erected in 1992, features the Star of David and inscriptions in Latvian and Hebrew: “1941–1944. To Jews – Victims of Genocide.”. The second monument also has an engraved Star of David. Visitors are encouraged to walk the paths, reflect on the history, and appreciate the solemn atmosphere. The site serves as an essential stop for those seeking to understand Latvia's past and honor the lives lost.

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