The Moscow District of Riga also known as ‘Maskachka’ and with the official title of ‘The Latgales priekšpilsēta’ is home to some of Riga’s wooden architecture, Jewish history and great atmosphere and character.
This area was developed outside of the city walls and has been a major feature of Riga and is often considered to be one of the oldest districts of the city. It is said that it takes its original name from the Bargemen who settled here from Russia and who traded in wood hauled by their Barges down the Daugava River. Other settlers from different ethnic backgrounds and trades settled in the area as well as Old believers, persecuted at the time, making home in the District.
During the Nazi occupation the Moscow District was turned into a Jewish Ghetto and you can find a new Jewish Ghetto Museum close by more info on the museum can be found HERE. The museum offers some information but it is still a developing project. The ghetto area itself can be explored on tram, foot or bike and you will find maps of this area all across the web.
Thousands of Jews were housed in the Riga ghetto during its existence and the old Jewish cemetery of Riga was also included in the Ghetto. Today there is a memorial and a park. The once beautiful Great Choral Synagogue today is no more and now is also a memorial, as well as a memorial to Jānis Lipķe situated in the same area.
When visiting ‘Maskachka’ you will see a huge difference between your experience in the old city. Just jump on a tram along Maskavas iela (Moscow Street) and ride it straight to heart of the district. Underpopulated, silent, run down, yet full of charm and character, this place is ideal for wandering and exploring. There is an old tram depo in the heart of The Moscow District and this is a good place to begin your exploration.
Locals will tell you not to visit The Moscow District as many believe that is a rough, criminal district. In general, as long as you are not going in too deep and not visiting at night time you should be fine but I would warn against large lenses on you cameras and maps, read more in our Is Riga Safe? section. If you wish to be accompanied through the district join one of our sightseeing excursions and for more info.
For me, I really love Maskachka, it has charm, charachter, history, great architecture, rich diversity and lots of open space. It is an area that if locals keep telling people not to visit, will never develop, never grow and never be the once beautiful suburb it once was. It is home to a cool flea market, the largest wooden structure in Riga, The Science Academy and much more besides. Take advantage of this great part of Riga’s history.
