Zilupe — town (since 1931) in Ludza District, Latvia. Founded in 1900 in Lyutsin County, Vitebsk Province. From 1920–40 it was part of the Republic of Latvia, and from 1940–91 within the Latvian SSR.

In 1920, about 500 Jews (75% of the population) lived in Zilupe; in 1930, about 500 (70%); and in 1935, 471 Jews (30%).

The Jewish community was established in 1900; a synagogue was built. From 1907–21, the rabbi was Aharon-Betzalel Paul. After World War I, nearly all Jews expelled during the war returned. In the 1920s–30s, charitable and social welfare organizations were active; the community received significant assistance from the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). A Jewish cemetery was established in the early 1920s. From 1921, the rabbi was Chaim-Menahem Nekhamkin, who perished during the Holocaust.

Jews earned their living primarily from small trade. In 1935, of 69 shops, 59 were Jewish-owned. Their economic situation was relatively stable. Many also cultivated vegetables on home plots.

In 1923, a Jewish elementary school was opened with instruction in Yiddish; from 1930, in Hebrew. Zionist activity was widespread.

Zilupe was occupied by the Wehrmacht in late June 1941. All Jews of Zilupe were murdered about 2 km from the town.

After 1945, several dozen Jews returned. A memorial was erected at the mass execution site.