Capitol Theater makes its past visible
02.06.2026 – Using state-of-the-art technology, the Capitol Theater Offenbach is now presenting a virtual reconstruction of the former synagogue in Goethestraße. Visitors now have the opportunity to watch a movie with a 3D view in the entrance area of the Capitol.
From the imposing dome to the ornate details of the interior, the atmosphere of the past can be experienced again. Access to the virtual tour with historical information is available to all guests who have purchased tickets for public events at the Capitol Theater and then come to the foyer on the respective dates. The vhs Offenbach will be making a special offer for interested parties in November; personal appointments are not possible.
The project was realized by the association "Freunde des Capitol Theaters Offenbach e.V." in cooperation with Dr. Ing. Marc Grellert and his team from Architectura Virtualis GmbH as well as the Technical University of Darmstadt and Goethe University Frankfurt. The replica was based on historical plans, photographs and scientific expertise.
Virtual reconstruction against forgetting
Capitol Managing Director Birgit von Hellborn 2025 established contact with the implementation office. She and her partner Jens Eichhöfer came up with the idea for the virtual journey into the past after a visit to the high-rise bunker in Frankfurt's Ostend district, which is run by the 9 November Initiative. An exhibition there uses digital technologies to show the virtual reconstruction of more than 25 synagogues. "I would never have thought that something like this would work technically," says von Hellborn.
"The aim of the project is to make the history of the synagogue in Offenbach, which was desecrated in 1938, visible and to preserve an important part of the city's history for future generations," explains Martin Wilhelm, Chairman of the Supervisory Board. Unlike in most cities, the synagogue building in Offenbach, including the large dome, has been preserved, emphasized Wilhelm: "This is why our historic event venue is particularly suitable for making it possible to experience the original design of the interior in a new way."
Remembrance of a former center of liberal Judaism
The reconstruction was financed by the Dr. Marschner Foundation as the main sponsor as well as other institutional and private supporters - including the "Friends of the Capitol Theater Offenbach e.V." and Stadtwerke Offenbach, whose Geschäftsfeld Veranstaltungen includes the Capitol Theater.
The synagogue, which was consecrated in April 1916, developed into the center of German, but above all liberal Judaism. The first female rabbi in the history of Judaism was also ordained in Offenbach. A variety of cultural activities in the synagogue and its banquet hall enriched Offenbach's cultural life until the building was desecrated during the pogrom night of 1938. Birgit von Hellborn is delighted that the original form of the unique building can now be experienced again virtually: "This innovative type of reconstruction sends out a signal against forgetting and helps us to preserve the memory."
