Known as “Florence of the North” the capital city of the German
Federal State of Saxony is situated in a picturesque valley on the
river Elbe. The important economic, governmental and cultural center
has about 500,000 inhabitants and the population in its
agglomeration is 1.1 million. Dresden is worldwide well-known for
the “Frauenkirche” Church and its historic centre. First mentioned
as a city in 1206, the 800th anniversary celebrations are currently
taking place in 2006.
Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for
the Kings of Saxony with centuries of extraordinary cultural and
artistic splendor. The controversial bombing of Dresden in World War
II, 40 years of GDR authority and a devastating flood changed the
face of the city dramatically. Since German reunification Dresden
could restore many of its stunning historic buildings to their
former glory. Today the city with the flair of the former Saxon
residence is well and truly back at the forefront of Germany's
tourist towns – simply a place with life style.
What to see
Dresden presents impressive Baroque buildings and museums with
world-famous culture and art treasures. But it is not only a magnet
for art lovers and architectural enthusiasts. Because of its great
variety of sights the city attracts tourists from all over the
world. The unchallenged highlights are the “Frauenkirche” Church,
the “Semperoper”, one of Europe’s leading opera houses which is
renowned for its excellent acoustics and the Baroque "Zwinger"
Palace. Beside these best-known places of interest the Royal Castle
and the Blue Wonder Bridge as well as many other historical
buildings and ensembles determine the image of the city. Magnificent
promenades on the bank of the Elbe, industrial monuments, charming
details – Dresden has a lot for you to discover!
