Discover some of Dresden’s finest landmarks and museums at Theaterplatz (Theater Square). Appreciate architectural masterpieces that showcase styles such as Baroque and Renaissance. Visit a grandiose 18th-century cathedral, art galleries and interesting museums. Watch ballet and opera performances at a historic opera house. Theaterplatz is a major feature of Dresden’s Inner Altstadt, which is part of the Altstadt (Old Town).
Stand in the center of the paved square to enjoy the best views of its surrounding buildings. To the north is the Semper Opera House, to the south is Dresden Cathedral and to the west is Zwinger Palace. Spot the equestrian monument to King John of Saxony, who was the Saxon ruler in the second half of the 19th century. The German sculptor Johannes Schilling created the statue in 1889.
Admire the elegant pavilions, fountains, orderly gardens and statues of the beautiful Baroque-style Zwinger Palace. Former Elector of Saxony, Augustus the Strong, commissioned the palace in the early 1700s as a venue for courtly festivities. Today, it houses a collection of galleries and museums. See works by Old Masters, such as Correggio and Raphael, at the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister. Find an exquisite porcelain display in the Porzellansammlung and antique science instruments at the Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon.
Take a guided tour of the Semper Opera House, opened in 1841 and reconstructed after World War II bomb damage. It’s famous for its neo-Renaissance exterior, lavishly decorated auditorium and excellent acoustics. Enjoy performances by the Saxon State Opera. Attend interpretations of ballet and opera classics, including Carmen, Don Quixote and The Nutcracker.
Scrutinize the façade and interior of Dresden Cathedral, also rebuilt after World War II. Note the 272-foot (83-meter) tall bell tower and the series of statues that stand atop a balustrade. Step inside and look up at the recreated ceiling frescoes.
Reach the square by taking a tram to the Theaterplatz stop. It’s a short walk from other major attractions in Dresden’s Altstadt. Among these are Old Market Square, Dresden Castle and the Italian Village.
Opening times and fees for the attractions on Theaterplatz vary. Visit the attractions’ official websites for more information.
