Altmarkt (Old Market Square), Dresden

Old Market Square has been an important part of Dresden since the 13th century, serving as a centre for markets, games, festivals and public events. The historic square was destroyed during the Second World War, but it was later reconstructed according to historical plans. Today, its buildings combine elements of Dresden’s Baroque heritage with post-war architecture.

One of the square’s landmarks is the Church of the Holy Cross, whose tower rises 92 metres (or 302 feet) above the city. The Culture Palace, completed in 1969, provides a striking modernist contrast with its distinctive symmetrical, trapezoidal roof, while buildings such as Old Market House continue the square’s more traditional architectural character.

Look out for several interesting plaques and memorials. At the corner of Old Market Square and Cross Street, a plaque marks the former home of Ludwig Tieck, one of the founding figures of German Romanticism. Other memorials commemorate the 1849 May Uprising, the post-war reconstruction of the square and those who died in Dresden during the Second World War.

Altmarkt remains a lively public space and hosts events including the Dresden Autumn Festival and the famous Striezel Market. Dating back to 1434, Dresden’s Christmas market is one of the world’s oldest. During the festive season, the square is decorated with a huge Christmas tree and a 14-metre (or 46-foot) Christmas pyramid, creating one of Dresden’s most atmospheric seasonal scenes.