Slipping back in time, imagine Dresden in the Stone Age. Early inhabitants settled along the Elbe River, long before the city we know existed. Fast forward to 1206, and the name “Dresdene” appears in historical records for the first time. We stand before the Burgwall, a silent testament to Dresden’s layered history. The name “Dresdene” likely comes from the Slavic “Dreždany,” meaning “inhabitant of the lowland riparian forest.” This Burgwall fortification, dating back to the Iron Age, offers a glimpse into the lives of those early inhabitants. While the grandeur of baroque Dresden might overshadow these ancient remnants, the Burgwall reminds us that history is built upon layer after layer, like the soil beneath our feet. This area witnessed the rise of Dresden from a small settlement to a seat of power for the Wettin dynasty in the late 15th century. Imagine the transformation from a simple riparian forest to the magnificent cultural center that Dresden became under August the Strong. The Burgwall whispers stories of resilience and change. It survived the devastating fire of 1685 that destroyed Altendresden. It endured the Prussian invasion of 1760, the abolition of monarchy in 1918, and the horrors of World War II. The Burgwall stands as a reminder of Dresden’s continuous evolution, a silent observer of the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped this city. It represents the very roots of Dresden, a foundation upon which centuries of history have been built.
Kutschgeteich Moritzburg
How many hidden havens do you think lie tucked away in Saxony? Right here before us lies one such secret: