Immersive time travel: Step into the heart of Kristallnacht with VR

Hey everyone, have you heard about the upcoming VR experience "Inside Kristallnacht"? Set to launch in 2024, on the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht, this isn't just any virtual reality project. It's a deep dive into one of history's darkest moments, and it's being brought to us by the Claims Conference, USC Shoah Foundation, MakeMePulse, Meta, UNESCO, and the World Jewish Congress.

So, what's it all about? Well, imagine stepping into the shoes of those who witnessed Kristallnacht, the "Night of Broken Glass," through VR. The project features Dr. Charlotte Knobloch, a survivor herself, guiding us through reconstructions of synagogues and streets that were shattered during those grim days in 1938. It’s not just a visual journey; you'll hear real archival audio, see photos, and even interact with Dr. Knobloch, thanks to some cool XR and natural language tech.

This isn't just another historical documentary. It's a fully immersive, interactive way to experience and understand the Holocaust's early stages. It’s a powerful tool for educators and a moving experience for just about anyone. You can access it through some of the best VR headsets, browsers, and mobile devices – making it super accessible.

Dr. Knobloch's involvement is really what brings this project home. She's not just sharing history; she's sharing her story, her memories. She stresses the importance of keeping the Holocaust's lessons alive, especially as antisemitism is still a global issue.

She states “If we do not continue to keep the memory of the past alive and push the lessons of the Holocaust, they will soon be forgotten, and we will be doomed to repeat our history. As those of us who survived pass on these tools, this technology will continue to be our voice and our testimony. ”

Gideon Taylor from the Claims Conference — a non-profit organization founded in 1951 — believes this VR project is a game-changer for Holocaust education, offering a new, immersive way to understand these events.

FteGreg Schneider, also from the Claims Conference, talks about how vital it is to capture these stories while we still can. As Holocaust survivors age, projects like "Inside Kristallnacht" become crucial in preserving and sharing their experiences.



"Inside Kristallnacht" isn't just about looking back; it's about learning and remembering. It's about making sure that the stories and lessons of the Holocaust continue to resonate, educate, and remind us of the horrors that humanity should never repeat. Keep an eye out for it in 2024 for a unique and powerful educational experience.

Just a heads-up before you dive into this VR experience - it's pretty intense and deals with some heavy historical stuff. 'Inside Kristallnacht' isn't for everyone, so give it some thought before you jump in, okay? It's powerful, but make sure you're ready for it when it's out there.