Vincent Krause
Höhenmedien Altitude Media Project Module l Prof. Jens Geelhaar, Prof. Bernd Rudolf, Prof. Andreas Kästner, Dr. Sabine Zierold l Bauhaus-Universität Weimar l Fall 2012
The Kyffhäuser is a historic and cultural landmark of regional, national, even international importance. Therefore, enhancing the visitors' orientation, guidance and experience on and around the Kyffhäuser is vital. The proposal intends to give the term ”sight-seeing” a literal translation. By implementing a series of delicate, multifunctional mirror- and lampposts along the paths, the ascension towards the landmarks and monuments of the Kyffhäuser is facilitated.
These filigree trestles-cum-lamp-posts allow visitors, by means of an optical system of mirrors and lenses, to catch a glimpse of the views above the treetops; some views directed towards the Barbarossa-Tower, others towards different sections of the surrounding panorama. By creating visual connections to reference points, these optical devices enable an easier orientation along the way and offer an idea of what to expect from reaching the plateau.
Additionally, the slender steles are equipped with lighting fixtures, providing night-time orientation and luminal ambiance. Upon arriving at the top, one is taken in by the panoramic view surrounding one at an almost 360° angle. An idea of this view can be seen on the spherical panorama drawing of 1890.
This spherically distorted sensation inspired the design of the mirroring hull, which displays an additional reflective attraction. Situated in the middle of the plaza, aligned with the central axis of the tower, the raised convex mirrored dish distorts the views of the surroundings. The circularity and scale of the object aims to attract visitors, especially children, to communicate and play around it.
Both measures are derivatives and playful varieties of the main feature of the Kyffhäuser: the panoramic view; enhancing the visitors' orientation and the Kyffhäuser experience; promoting the attraction and the competitiveness of the landmark among others in the region.