Built in the mid-nineteenth century, the Sofiensäle was originally a swimming pool and events venue. Later, Johann Strauss conducted his orchestra here to thunderous applause. Shortly after World War II, in 1948, a ball celebrating the peace treaty was held in the great central hall. However, the large chandeliers that had once decorated and illuminated the ballrooms were missing. As there was not enough time to manufacture chandeliers of the necessary size on such short notice, Lobmeyr owner Hans Harald Rath had the idea of building mock-ups from wire mesh and available crystal parts. “Real” chandeliers were to be commissioned later. However, the makeshift constructions were met with such enthusiasm that they remained on site until a devastating fire destroyed the Sofiensäle in 2001.