Developing Systematics Regarding Virtual Reconstruction of Synagogues

Abstract

Computer-assisted reconstruction of no-longer existent (architectural) objects and their surroundings amounts to a “virtual comeback”. Irreversible destruction having removed identity-establishing buildings from the urban surface forever is the principal reason for re-creating them by imagination. Following the destruction during the so-called “Reichskristall-Night” of November 1938, the synagogues of the Jewish community in Vienna will only survive by means of virtual reconstruction. Sixty 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 additional synagogues as a project to be carried out in stages over a period of several years. Changes in personnel also call for a structure to be tracked down later on. This paper deals with handling of modeling in a systematic manner, taking into consideration personnel changes,aiming at a traceable data structure for subsequent use and follow-up work.