Old Masters Picture Gallery: A Treasure Trove of European Art
Discover masterpieces from the Renaissance to the Baroque at Dresden's Old Masters Picture Gallery, home to Raphael's Sistine Madonna and a world-class collection of European art.
The Old Masters Picture Gallery (Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister) in Dresden is a world-renowned art museum housing an exceptional collection of paintings from the 15th to 18th centuries. Located in the Semper Building of the Zwinger Palace, this gallery showcases masterpieces by Italian Renaissance artists like Raphael (Sistine Madonna), Baroque masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, and Flemish masters including Rubens. Visitors can immerse themselves in European art history, exploring thematic displays and admiring works from various countries and artistic movements. Beyond the paintings, the gallery's Sculpture Collection highlights the interplay between sculpture and painting during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. A visit promises a captivating journey through centuries of artistic brilliance.
A brief summary to Old Masters Picture Gallery
- Theaterplatz 1, Dresden, Altstadt, 01067, DE
- +4935149142000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Consider purchasing a combination ticket to access other museums within the Zwinger Palace complex, such as the Porcelain Collection and the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments.
- Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages to learn more about the artworks and their historical context.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Old Masters Picture Gallery is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 2, 3, 4, or 7 to the 'Theaterplatz' stop, which is directly in front of the Zwinger Palace. Alternatively, tram lines 1, 2, 4, 7, or 12 stop at 'Postplatz', a short walk from the gallery. A single tram fare within Dresden is approximately €2.50.
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Walking
From many central Dresden locations, such as the Frauenkirche or the Altmarkt, the Old Masters Picture Gallery is within easy walking distance (5-10 minutes). Simply head towards the Theaterplatz and the prominent Zwinger Palace. Look for the Semperoper opera house; the gallery is located in the Semper Building, which is part of the Zwinger complex.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Old Masters Picture Gallery will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at Theaterplatz, directly in front of the Zwinger Palace.
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Driving
Parking near the Old Masters Picture Gallery is limited and can be expensive. The closest parking options are the 'Tiefgarage Altmarkt' (underground parking garage) and the 'Parkplatz Schießgasse'. Hourly rates at these garages range from €2 to €3, with daily maximums around €20. Consider parking further away and taking public transport or walking to avoid potential parking hassles and costs.
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