The Historic Green Vault is one of the richest treasure chambers in Europe, showcasing a vast collection of precious gems, gold objects, ivory, enamel, and other artworks. The splendor of the baroque interior is overwhelming, especially with the shimmer of gold and the sparkle of jewels everywhere. Visitors to the Green Vault can expect to be amazed by the intricate craftsmanship and historical significance of the curated items, illustrating Saxony's wealth and the august taste of Augustus the Strong, who commissioned many of the pieces. With around 3,000 masterpieces of jewelry and goldsmith work, as well as other highlights such as the world-famous Dresden Green Diamond, the tour is a captivating journey through not just the history of artisanship but also the political and cultural tapestry that formed the backdrop for these creations. It is essential to pre-book this tour as the number of daily visitors is limited to protect the valuable exhibits.
The New Green Vault offers a slightly different experience from the Historic Green Vault. It is a museum that focuses on presenting individual items in their best light, giving visitors an up-close look at the skill and artistry of each piece. There are about 1,000 masterpieces on display in the New Green Vault, and they are showcased in an open exhibition format that does not require advanced ticket booking. The presentation is more modern, with explanatory texts and a focus on the design and creation of each object. Highlights include the Court of Delhi at the celebration of the Grand Mogul Aurangzeb and the Coffee Service for Twelve, both showing off precision craftsmanship and luxury of the Saxon court. While less intimate than the historic section, the New Green Vault is a must-see for any visitor interested in baroque art and European history.
The Dresden Castle, also known as the Dresdner Residenzschloss or Royal Palace, is a magnificent example of different architectural styles spanning from the Renaissance to the Baroque and into modern times. A tour of the Royal Palace's architecture will lead guests through the castle’s various structural changes and restorations. As visitors walk through the complex, they will learn about the role of the castle as a residence of the electors and kings of Saxony. The architectural tour often includes visits to the Hausmannsturm, or the castle keep, where one can get an incredible panoramic view of Dresden. Additionally, the tour may cover sections of the castle not usually open to the public, providing an exclusive glimpse into the palace's inner workings and history.
The Numismatic Collection Exhibition in Dresden Castle offers a unique insight into the history of currency, medals, and coins. Boasting over 300,000 items, this exhibition features artifacts from ancient times to the present day. During the visit, you'll explore the evolution of money, learn about the economic contexts in which different currencies were used, and discover the artistic value of medals and how they commemorated significant events and figures in history. The tour's narrative often weaves local Saxon history into a broader historical context, showing the impact of trade, war, and cultural exchange on the development of currency. It is an informative and thought-provoking exhibition that appeals not only to numismatists but also to anyone interested in history and economics.
The Turkish Chamber is a lavish display of Ottoman art and artifacts within Dresden Castle. It is one of the most significant collections of Ottoman art outside Turkey. The exhibition includes around 600 items, ranging from the 16th to the 19th centuries, showing the fascination with oriental culture within the Saxon court. Visitors can marvel at luxurious textiles, intricate weapons and armor, equestrian equipment, and opulent tents that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the Ottoman Empire. The Turkish Chamber is not just an exhibition of exotic objects; it provides a historical context that interprets relations between Saxony and the Ottoman Empire, illuminating how cultural interaction shaped art, trade, and politics in Europe.
The Armoury, also known as the Rüstkammer, is home to one of the most valuable collections of arms and armor in Europe. The highlight is the Giant Hall or 'Riesensaal,' which displays roughly 3,000 masterpieces of weaponry, including shields, helmets, and suits of armor for both men and horses. This tour offers a deep dive into the craftsmanship and technology of warfare from the late Middle Ages to the Renaissance. You'll find striking examples of both ceremonial and combat gear that demonstrate the intricate balance between form and function, highlighting the role of weaponry as both tools of war and symbols of power. A trip to the Armoury’s Giant Hall is an exploration of history, art, and the evolution of military equipment.
Touring the State Apartments of Dresden Castle provides a taste of the grandeur in which the Saxon monarchs lived. The rooms, still furnished with original pieces including furniture, tapestries, and paintings, evoke an era of opulence and power. The tour typically includes the Small and Large Ballrooms, the Audience Chamber, and the state bedrooms. Each room is an example of luxury and royal taste, telling a story of courtly life, political intrigue, and cultural patronage. The State Apartments are a testament to the wealth and influence of the Saxon rulers and offer a fascinating insight into the everyday lives and ceremonies of the nobility.
The Cabinet of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs houses an extensive collection of graphic art from the Renaissance to contemporary times. It's a treasure trove of artistic works, including engravings, drawings, prints, and photographs by both renowned and lesser-known artists. The tour of the collection allows art lovers an up-close look at original works by masters such as Dürer, Rembrandt, and Klinger. The collection is dynamically presented, with exhibits changing regularly due to the sensitivity of the works to light, offering fresh and unique experiences to repeat visitors. This focused tour on graphic arts offers a complementary perspective on the history of visual expression and techniques, enhancing appreciation for a medium that is often overshadowed by painting and sculpture.
Fairy Tale Sunday at Dresden Castle is an enchanting experience designed for families with children. This special event invites families to step into the world of fairy tales and legends amidst the historical backdrop of the castle. Through interactive storytelling and activities, children engage with timeless tales that spark their imaginations and bring the magic of the castle's history to life. The session often includes a guided tour through some of the castle's rooms, tailored to be child-friendly and accessible, making it a delightful and educational outing for the young ones. It's a unique opportunity to introduce children to history and the arts in a fun and memorable way.
The Evening Candlelight Tour offers a romantic and atmospheric way to experience Dresden Castle. As dusk falls and the crowds dwindle, a limited number of guests are allowed to wander the rooms and halls of the castle by candlelight. This tour provides a unique ambiance that cannot be replicated during the day, adding a sense of mystery and timelessness to the visit. The flickering candles cast shadows and illuminate artworks in a soft glow, suggesting how the castle might have looked in centuries past when candlelight was the main source of illumination. A knowledgeable guide leads the tour, sharing tales and facts about the castle's history, its occupants, and their intrigues, making for a memorable and intimate evening.
Historical Places (43)
Museums (29)
Zoos (5)
Gardens (5)
Lakes (1)
