Fortuna - Kino der Jugend e.V.

Fortuna - Kino der Jugend e.V. stands in Leipzig’s eastern district as a protected cinema building with an industrial past. Its stepped front gable carries a sculpture of the goddess Fortuna, visible from the street. Constructed in 1889 as a generator building for the local gasworks, the structure became a cinema in 1928.

Known as Kino der Jugend, the building has stood empty since 1987, despite its importance to Leipzig’s architecture, technology, public education and neighbourhood history. Roof work and temporary drainage followed in 2017, while approved security measures in 2021 included foundation repairs, base sealing and further roof work. Restoration remains necessary, and the association’s plan would create a socio-cultural centre for concerts, film screenings, exhibitions and community activities.

The concept received approval in 2020, with the association and city working together on its future. Temporary art exhibitions, concerts and film screenings have already kept the site connected to local life. Original features from both the 1889 construction and the 1928 cinema conversion are intended to survive, alongside future discussions about artificial intelligence, copyright and virtual experiences.