Dresden

Like Prague, I was really surprised at what I saw in Dresden, most likely because I was ignorant of the East and thought I would see vestiges of the former DDR. Well they do still exist, bits and pieces scattered everywhere. But since the reunification in 1990, Dresden has evolved into a cultural and economic centre of the former East Germany.

Perhaps the most happening and touristic part of Dresden is the Altstadt, seen from the evening shot below taken across the Elbe river. A huge proportion of the Altstadt was actually bombed during the 2nd world war, but the restoration works were so quick that most of it has been restored to its former state.

Frauenkirche - built during the years 1726 and 1743, a baroque feat at that time.

However, during the war, it was badly damaged and the whole church practically collapsed to the ground. In fact, during the DDR regime after that, the church was not reconstructed untill only the collapse of the Soviet regime that reconstruction started in 1993.

Dome ceiling taken from the centre

Royal Stables and the royal quarter

Residenz Schloss - home of the royal family since 1485Semper Oper - one of the most famous opera houses in the world

Hofkirche on the left - the palace church, and the right is the Residenz Schloss
The Zwinger - a "versailles wannabe"

Crowned Bridge over the moat that leads to the entrance of the Zwinger

http://picasaweb.google.com/mannheim08a/17JulyDresden