Royal Palace Dresden

In the middle of Dresden's Old Town is the "Residenzschloss" (Royal Palace) located. With over 400 years of history, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city and ranks among the most significant Renaissance palaces in Germany.

Architecture

The architecture of the palace is a masterpiece of Baroque and Renaissance styles. Due to the various construction phases, the palace bears traces of all architectural styles from Romanesque to Historicism. The Albrechtsburg, the oldest part of the palace, still exhibits Gothic influences, while the Johanneum wing reflects Renaissance design. Particularly impressive is the Baroque-style palace complex, surrounding the courtyard and presenting an imposing facade.

Attractions in the Palace

Inside the "Residenzschloss" Dresden, several museums can be found, including the Royal Parade Rooms of Augustus the Strong, the Porcelain Cabinet, the Copper Engraving Cabinet, the Coin Cabinet, the Small Ballroom, the Gun Gallery in the Long Corridor, the New and Historic Green Vaults, the Renaissance Wing, and the Giant's Hall of the Armory with the Turkish Chamber. Additionally, the palace houses the Art Library and the General Directorate of the Staatliche "Kunstsammlungen Dresden" (State Art Collections Dresden), one of Europe's largest art collections.

The history of the Residenzschloss Dresden dates back to 1206 when it was built as a simple wooden castle. However, over the centuries, it underwent significant changes. To meet the needs of the Saxon electors and kings, the palace was repeatedlyexpanded and redesigned. Particularly under the reign of Augustus the Strong (1670-1733), the palace experienced its heyday and was transformed into a splendid Baroque palace. As an enthusiastic patron of art and culture, Augustus the Strong assembled an extensive art collection, which is now part of the famous Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

After the bombing of Dresden in 1945, the Residenzschloss Dresden was heavily damaged and almost completely destroyed. The reconstruction of the palace began in the 1980s and continues to this day.

The attraction is located in the heart of Dresden's Old Town, in close proximity to the Dresdner Zwinger and the Catholic Hofkirche.

Public Transport:

Dresden has a well-developed tram and bus network. The nearest tram stops are usually "Theaterplatz" or "Altmarkt," both just a few minutes' walk from the palace.

By Car:

If you are arriving by car, keep in mind that the city center of Dresden can be heavily congested. There are parking spaces around the palace, but they can fill up quickly. It is advisable to arrive early or use Park-and-Ride options on the outskirts of the city and then continue to the city center using public transportation.