Zwinger

Poetry in the sandstone

Dresden's Zwinger (Bailey). A magnificent barque architectural ensemble. Constructed by the virtuoso artists Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann and Balthasar Permoser for the Elector Friedrich August I. Of Saxony, also known as the Strong.

The Zwinger

A world famous artwork, a combination of architecture, sculpture and painting, was built under the direction of the architect Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann and the sculptor Balthasar Permoser on the orders of the Elector of Saxony August the Strong in 1709. It was initially built as an orangerie, the Zwinger quickly developed to an exemplary venue for August the Strong's courtly parties and representative events and experienced its highpoint, even before it was fully completed, in 1719 as the venue for the wedding celebrations of Friedrich August with the Emperor's daughter Maria Josepha.

Today, located in the historical city centre between Dresden's palace, the catholic court church and the Semperoper, the Zwinger now houses art collections which were founded by the Saxon royal family. The painting gallery is famous worldwide and boasts a fine collection of world masters including works by Albrecht Dürer, Hans Holbein, Lucas Cranach, Rafael and Tizian. Enjoy a guided tour of the gallery buildings, which offers you a magnificent view of the city, climb into the cool water world of the Nymphs' bath and listen to the sound of the Meissener porcelain Glockenspiel - the Zwinger is sure to captivate you.