Dresden Castle, Dresden (must see)

Dresden Castle is one of Dresden’s oldest and most important buildings. For almost 400 years, it served as the residence of the electors of Saxony and the kings of Saxony and Poland. The complex has evolved through several architectural periods, combining Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Renaissance elements.

The castle originated in the 13th century as a Romanesque keep. It was expanded in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it developed into an impressive royal residence. A devastating fire in 1701 led Augustus the Strong to rebuild much of the complex in the ornate Baroque style, including new collection rooms in the western wing. Between 1889 and 1901, further renovations were carried out to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the House of Wettin, giving the exterior its distinctive Neo-Renaissance appearance. In 1914, modern comforts such as central heating and electric lighting were added.

The castle was heavily damaged during the 1945 bombing of Dresden. Restoration began in the 1960s and continues in stages today. Its former royal collection rooms now house several outstanding museums belonging to the Dresden State Art Collections.

For tourists, the Historic Green Vault and New Green Vault are major highlights, displaying extraordinary treasures of gold, silver, jewellery, ivory and precious stones. Other attractions include the Dresden Armory, Numismatic Cabinet and Collection of Prints, Drawings and Photographs. The castle also contains an art library with around 260,000 titles relating to art history.

Be sure to explore the Stall Courtyard, associated with Dresden’s famous Procession of Princes, and look for the reconstructed English Stairway, restored according to its original Baroque design. Finally, climb the Hausmann Tower for panoramic views over Dresden’s Old Town.