Frauenkirche & Neumarkt
Frauenkirche Dresden
A Baroque domed church reduced to rubble in World War II and rebuilt with its original stones in 2005. It stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation.
The Frauenkirche was built between 1726 and 1743. Its massive stone bell-shaped dome, known as the "Stone Bell," makes it Germany's most important Protestant Baroque building. After the Dresden bombing of February 1945, the church collapsed. Its ruins were preserved for nearly half a century as a memorial against war. After German reunification, it was rebuilt with international donations. Wherever possible, the original stones were numbered and returned to their original positions, so the outer walls show a patchwork of darker old stone and lighter new stone. It was reconsecrated in 2005. The golden cross on top of the dome was made by a craftsman from Coventry, England, as a symbol of reconciliation. The interior is bright and colorful. Entry is free, except during services and concerts. Check the official website for entrance times and procedures. For a fee, you can climb to the observation platform in the dome, about 67 meters up, for views over the Elbe and the old town. The surrounding Neumarkt has been rebuilt in the original Baroque style with townhouses, making it a pleasant place for dining and evening strolls.
Opening hours
Interior visits mostly weekdays 10:00–11:30 and 13:00–17:30 (check website); dome terrace has separate times
Nearby sights
- Brühl's Terrace
- Dresden Transport Museum
- Saxon Steamship Company Paddle Steamers
- Procession of Princes
- Albertinum
- Kreuzkirche
- Altmarkt & Striezelmarkt
- Dresden Cathedral (Hofkirche)