Jewish heritage in Kedainiai and Siauliai
The tour will show you the very best places in Lithuania, wandering slightly off the beaten track! Your first stop will be Kedainiai – a town in the very geographical center of Lithuania known for its history and multicultural community – with Jewish being the most notable.
The inception of the Jewish community in Kedainiai dates back to 1627, when Kristupas Radvilas, owner of the city, gave permission to the Jewish community to settle in the old market area of the town. As the community quickly expanded, the market was shortly started to call the Jewish Market. In 18th century Kedainiai boasted Jewish schools and artisan workshops. By the end of the 19th century, 61% of the city’s population was Jewish. Thus, 8-9 places of worship operated in the town to cater for the needs of the community – 3 of them have survived until our days. Elijahu Zalman studied in Kedainiai, better known under the name Vilna Gaon, the town also marks the birth of Moshe Leib Lilienblum (1843 – 1910), Iseris Mose Rubinas (1871-1957).
During the tour your will learn about the history of Kedainiai, get to know the Jewish history in the city between 17th and first half of the 20th century, visit the synagogue complex, see the most famous cultural and historic sights.
Lunch – you will have a chance to try and enjoy the traditional Jewish or Lithuania cuisine
Transfer Kedainiai – Siauliai (c. 1.5 hours) Upon arrival at Siauliai, you will get to know the city during a walking tour and visit the Chaimas Frenkelis (1857-1920) villa. The villa holds memories of one of the most successful businessmen in Lithuania. Museum collection inside tells the story of Siauliai Jewish community, life of the Frenkelis family and contains exclusive mid-war period items. Return to Kaunas or Vilnius.
Optionally, you can choose to visit linen clothing and hand-made rugs manufacture in Panevezys.
12 h
When: The tour can start in Vilnius, Kaunas or other Lithuanian or Latvian city.
Pick-up point: Your hotel in Vilnius or Kaunas or other place of your convenience. Recommended starting time 08.00am-08.30am
Price per 1 person: From 46 EUR p.p. (given pick-up in Kaunas or Vilnius, group of 15+ people, tour in English or Russian)
Included in the price:Tour guide service, transportation, tours and sights of visit as per the itinerary
Additional expenses:Traditional Lithuanian or Jewish lunch – tasting in Kedainiai (from 10 EUR p.p.), entrance to Kedainiai City museum 3 EUR p.p., entrance to Frenkelis villa 4 EUR p.p.