Dresden is the capital city of the Free State of Saxony in Germany. It is situated in a valley on the River Elbe approximately twenty kilometres from the border with the Czech Republic. It is one of the largest centres of the industry, transport and culture of Germany.
In the German literature Dresden has received the name Florence on Elba, but also abroad the city is widely known for the monuments of architecture in a Baroque style, magnificent collections of paintings and other works of art.
Dresden firstly was mentioned as the city in 1216. Since 1485 Dresden is the capital of Saxony. As a result of Napoleonic wars Saxony incurred huge territorial losses, value of Dresden in political life of Europe decreased, but it was still considered as one of the largest cultural centres.
At the end of the Second World War Dresden underwent a large bombardment. The restoration of the centre lasted almost forty years — the remained fragments if possible were used, missing stone blocks and architectural elements were cut out anew — they considerably stand out for a light shade of a stone.
These sights are worth your attention:
• The Dresden Castle was once the home of the princely and royal household since 1485.
• The Zwinger Palace (XVIII century) was built on the old stronghold of the city and was converted to a center for the royal art collections and a place to hold festivals.
• Brühl's Terrace was a gift to Heinrich, count von Brühl and became an ensemble of buildings above the river Elbe.
• Other sights are: Dresden Elbe Valley with the Pillnitz Castle and other castles, the Deutsche Hygiene-Museum, founded for mass education in hygiene, health, human biology and medicine, the Transport Museum, State Museum of Prehistory, the Saxon State Opera, the Frauenkirhe, the Catholic Church Hofkirhe, Gallery of old masters, a Russian Orthodox Church, the golden equestrian sculpture of King/Elector August the Strong, etc.