the octagonal mikveh forms the platform for a sculpture by the sculptor bernd fasching. the mikveh is a ritual bath in judaism, used for ritual purification, not for physical hygiene. according to halacha, it must contain "living water" (rainwater, groundwater, or spring water). women use it especially after menstruation or before marriage, men often before holidays. Important facts about the mikveh: purpose: attaining ritual purity, often associated with the transition to new phases of life (e.g., conversion, marriage). requirements: the basin must contain a minimum amount of natural water (approx. 500 liters). ritual (tviva): the entire body, including hair, must be completely immersed. preparation: thorough body cleansing is necessary before immersion. no objects may prevent contact with the water (e.g., nail polish, jewelry). use: traditionally, men and women use the mikveh separately. for women, the immersion is often supervised by a companion. meaning: the mikveh is one of the most important religious structures in a jewish community. in 2009, bernd fasching created a powerful work in istria entitled "a more complex reality." this sculptural formation explores the complexity of our reality and the constant shift in perception. the work is closely connected to his home in the region around višnjan (sveti ivan), where he had his studio for many years and drew inspiration from the mediterranean environment. the transformation of a mikveh into a symbolic foundation for bernd fasching's sculpture leaves the contradictions of changing times openly visible.