St. Petersburg: Jewish Heritage Tour

Start your city tour with a drive through the old district of Kolomna which was the center of Jewish life in the 19th century. Stop at St. Petersburg Conservatory founded by Anton Rubinstein and hear about its outstanding Jewish graduates.

Next, drive by some historical sights associated with the first Jews of the 18th century including the ornate palaces of the Ginzburgs and the Polyakovs, the two powerful dynasties of Jewish bankers. See Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s central street with the monumental Wawelberg Bank building that belonged to the wealthiest bankers of Poland, and other famous structures.

After the sightseeing tour, you’ll get inside the Grand Choral Synagogue and find out about its architecture, the history of its foundation and construction, as well as its life today and in the past. At the Russian Museum of Ethnography you will learn about the history of Jews that lived on the territory of the Russian Empire, their everyday life activities, occupation, and culture.  

Before returning to your hotel you will visit the YESOD center where you will get to see how the Jewish community of today lives. This center combines Jewish organizations that cater for all ages, from young children to senior citizens.