Dresden
Florence of the Elbe
General Information
Other Name: Elbflorenz, , State: Saxony, Germany
Area: 328.8 km²
Languages Spoken: German and English
Long Distance Code: +49 351
Importance: It is an industrial, governmental, and cultural center, known worldwide for the Bruehl's Terrace and its historic landmarks in the old town.
Best Time to Visit: March to April and October
International Access: Well connected to the world and to all parts of Germany.
Description
Dresden is the capital city of the German Federal Free State of Saxony. It is situated in a valley on the River Elbe. The Dresden conurbation is part of the Saxon Triangle metropolitan area.Location
Dresden lies on both banks of the river Elbe, mostly in the Dresden Elbe Valley Basin, with the further reaches of the eastern Ore Mountains to the south.Climate
Cold-moderate Climate
The medieval fortress that is Burg Stolpen was the site of incarceration of Anna Constanze, Countess of Cosel, who was the most famous mistress of August the Strong. The cell in which the countess was held can be witnessed by visitors, as well as the prison's torture chamber. A small museum within this Dresden fortress is home to a variety of interesting artefacts and attractions, dating from the building's prison days.
Dresden tourist attraction open: daily - 09:00 to 17:00, seasonal variations apply
Dresden tourist attraction admission: charge
A splendid example of classic German architecture within Dresden, the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) was built by George Bähr between 1726 and 1743 and is most famous for having hosted organ recitals by the revered composer and musician JW Bach. The church was razed by bombing during WWII. However, the bricks were collected and stored until in 1990, when a major rebuilding project began. The current structure is faithful to the old church, and its many internal attractions retain their original splendour.
Dresden tourist attraction open: Monday to Friday - 10:00 to 16:00
Dresden tourist attraction admission: no charge
Residenzschloss, otherwise known as the Dresden Royal Palace, was constructed in various stages between the 12th and 19th centuries and was the former official royal residence of the Saxon royal family. The church combines architectural features from the Baroque, Romantic, Renaissance and neo-Renaissance periods, and although having suffered heavy structural damage during WWII, it has come a long way towards being returned to its original magnificence. The chapel of the palace is currently used by the Dresdner Staatschauspiel ensemble for a number of well-supported events, while the fully restored building is now home to many precious and valuable attractions, such as the Crown Jewels, the Engraving Collection and also the city's Coin Museum.
Dresden tourist attraction open: Wednesday to Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00, seasonal variations apply
Dresden tourist attraction admission: charge
The Annenkirche, or St. Anne's Church, is located within the historic Altstadt district of Dresden and is a small structure that typifies the architecture of its period. The church has suffered various structural injuries from a number of wars over the years, but it has been successfully restored to its former glory each time. St. Anne's Church has marvellous acoustics and is regularly used for musical performances, with everything from classical to jazz concerts being amongst the main attractions here.
Dresden tourist attraction open: daily
Dresden tourist attraction admission: no charge
Built between 1710 and 1732, Dresden's magnificent palace of Zwinger is one of the highlights of Dresden and is a splendid example of late German-Baroque architecture. After checking out the excellent views available of its grand exterior, visitors can venture inside in order to observe the ornate interior and range of interesting exhibits and other attractions, among which are the porcelain collection, the impressive Old Masters Picture Gallery, the fascinating Zoological Museum and the Mathematisch Physikalischer Salon.
Dresden tourist attraction open: daily, seasonal variations
Dresden tourist attraction admission: charge