Virtual Reconstruction of Synagogues : Systematic Maintenance of Modeling Data

Abstract

Computer-assisted reconstruction of no-longer existent (architectural) objects and their surroundings practically amounts to a “virtual comeback”. Irreversible destruction having removed identity-establishing buildings from the urban surface for all times is the principal cause for the attempt of renewed imaginating. Following the destruction of the so-called “Reichskristall-Night” of November 1938 the synagogues of the Jewish community in Vienna surely are to be considered for a virtual reconstruction. 60 years later, in the commemorative year of 1998 the first synagogue reconstruction was initiated. The medium-range goal, however, aims at the reconstruction of at least ten further synagogues within a project to be carried out in stages to be pursued over a period of several years. Fluctuations concerning the people involved in handling also call for a structure to be tracked down later on. This contribution deals with handling of modeling in a systematic manner aiming at a traceable data structure being of utmost importance for subsequent use and following-up work.