Discussion “Intourist at the Golden Linden” at Ogre History and Art Museum (Video)

2024. On October 18, 2024, a discussion titled “Intourist at the Golden Linden” took place at the Ogre History and Art Museum. Participants included Dr. hist. Ineta Lipša, Dr. hist. Kārlis Kangeris, and museum historians Dr. hist. Ritvars Jansons, Mg. hist. Inese Dreimane, and Kristīne Zaķīte. The discussion addressed the activities of “Intourist”, a front organisation for the KGB (State Security Committee). The discussion focused on how “Intourist” – an institution operating in occupied Latvia to receive foreign tourists – also functioned as a mechanism for controlling them.

During the occupation period, the movement of foreign tourists and their contact with residents was strictly restricted. Violations could result in expulsion or even criminal liability. This system of control, aimed at preventing foreign tourists from being exposed to Western democratic ideas, reveals the repressive nature of the occupation regime. Ogre’s popular café “Pie zelta liepas” was one of only three places outside Riga where foreign tourists were permitted to dine under “Intourist” supervision.