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Fürstenzug: A Royal Procession in Porcelain

Witness the grandeur of Saxony's rulers immortalized in porcelain at the Fürstenzug, the world's largest artwork of its kind, a landmark of Dresden's resilience and artistic heritage.

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The Fürstenzug, or Procession of Princes, is a monumental mural in Dresden, Germany, that vividly depicts the lineage of Saxony's rulers. Stretching over 100 meters along Augustusstraße, this artwork is not merely a decoration but a historical narrative rendered in exquisite detail. Originally created in the late 19th century to celebrate the Wettin Dynasty's 800th anniversary, the initial sgraffito work was soon replaced by over 23,000 Meissen porcelain tiles to withstand the elements. Today, it stands as the world's largest porcelain artwork, showcasing 35 margraves, electors, dukes, and kings who shaped Saxony from the 12th to the early 20th century. Its survival through the bombings of World War II has further cemented its status as a symbol of Dresden's resilience and artistic heritage, drawing visitors to marvel at its grandeur and historical significance.

A brief summary to Fürstenzug

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the vibrant colors and intricate details of the porcelain tiles.
  • Take a guided walking tour of Dresden's Old Town to learn about the history and significance of the Fürstenzug.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dresden Castle and Zwinger Palace for a comprehensive cultural experience.
  • Look closely to identify the different rulers and their symbols, gaining insights into Saxony's rich history.
  • Consider visiting in the spring or summer to enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the surrounding gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Fürstenzug is centrally located on Augustusstraße in Dresden's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most major attractions. From the Frauenkirche, walk southeast along Augustusstraße for about 200 meters. The mural is located on the outer wall of the Stallhof, part of the Dresden Castle complex, on your left. The entire stretch of the mural can be viewed for free as you walk along Augustusstraße.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by tram or bus, the closest stops are 'Theaterplatz' and 'Altmarkt'. Tram lines 1, 2, 4, 11, and 12, as well as bus line 75, serve these stops. From Theaterplatz, walk east along Sophienstraße, then turn right onto Augustusstraße. From Altmarkt, walk north along Wilsdruffer Straße, then turn left onto Augustusstraße. The Fürstenzug will be on your right. A single ticket for public transport within Dresden costs approximately €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Fürstenzug will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is typically between €10 and €15. Ask the driver to take you to Augustusstraße near the Dresden Castle.

  • Driving

    Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Fürstenzug is limited. Underground parking garages are available near the Altmarkt and under the Frauenkirche. Expect to pay around €3-€5 per hour for parking. From the parking garages, follow signs to Augustusstraße. Be aware that traffic in the Old Town can be congested, especially during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Fürstenzug

The Fürstenzug, meaning "Procession of Princes," is an iconic and breathtaking mural located in the heart of Dresden's historic city center. Adorning the outer wall of the Stallhof, a courtyard within the Dresden Castle complex, this remarkable work of art offers a compelling visual journey through the history of Saxony and its ruling Wettin dynasty. Originally conceived to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the House of Wettin in the late 19th century, the Fürstenzug was initially rendered as a sgraffito artwork between 1871 and 1876 by the artist Wilhelm Walther. However, the exposed location soon took its toll, and the mural began to deteriorate due to the elements. To preserve this important historical depiction for future generations, a decision was made to recreate the mural using a more durable material. Between 1904 and 1907, the original sgraffito was painstakingly replaced with approximately 23,000 Meissen porcelain tiles. This ambitious undertaking transformed the Fürstenzug into the world's largest porcelain artwork, a testament to both artistic vision and engineering prowess. The Meissen porcelain manufactory, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, meticulously produced each tile, ensuring the preservation of Walther's original design while enhancing its longevity. The mural stretches an impressive 102 meters (335 feet) in length and depicts a grand procession of 35 Saxon rulers, spanning from Conrad, Margrave of Meissen, who ruled in the 12th century, to King George of Saxony, who reigned until 1904. Each ruler is portrayed on horseback or foot, clad in historically accurate attire and accompanied by symbolic items representing their era and accomplishments. The procession also includes 59 scientists, artisans, craftsmen, children, and farmers, symbolizing the diverse facets of Saxon society throughout the centuries. A closer examination of the Fürstenzug reveals a wealth of historical detail. The figures are depicted with remarkable precision, showcasing the evolution of fashion, weaponry, and cultural trends over time. Each character's attire, posture, and accompanying symbols offer insights into their reign and contributions to Saxony's history. Art enthusiasts may also note some anachronisms in the clothing styles, reflecting artistic license common in 19th-century art. The Fürstenzug's survival through the devastating bombings of Dresden during World War II adds another layer of significance to its story. Despite the widespread destruction that engulfed the city, the mural sustained only minimal damage, a testament to the durability of the porcelain tiles and a symbol of Dresden's resilience. Following the war, the Fürstenzug was carefully cleaned and restored, ensuring its continued preservation for future generations. Today, the Fürstenzug stands as one of Dresden's most iconic landmarks, attracting visitors from around the globe. Its central location on Augustusstraße, near other prominent attractions such as the Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, and Dresden Castle, makes it easily accessible to tourists exploring the city's historic center. The mural is freely accessible to the public, allowing visitors to admire its grandeur and intricate details at any time of day or night. Beyond its artistic and historical value, the Fürstenzug serves as a powerful reminder of Saxony's rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of its people. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dresden, offering a unique and immersive glimpse into the region's past.

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