Palaisteich

Gazing across the serene expanse of the Palaisteich, it’s easy to imagine it as a tranquil mirror reflecting the grandeur of Dresden’s Grosser Garten. The Palaisteich, completed in 1715, is one of Dresden’s oldest fountain installations. Designed by Johann Friedrich Karcher, it was initially conceived as a reflecting pool for the Palais im Grossen Garten, enhancing its regal presence. During its early years, the Palaisteich was envisioned with multiple fountains, as evidenced by a 1714 drawing depicting two main fountains and fourteen smaller fountain basins. The final design, however, featured a single, central fountain. In 1719, during the opulent wedding festivities of August III and Maria Josepha of Austria, the Palaisteich was transformed into a picturesque gondola pond, surrounded by a low hedge and a charming arbor. Over time, the Palaisteich adapted to the changing needs and desires of the city. In the 19th century, it embraced a more practical role as a winter ice rink, even boasting an ice slide in 1819, thanks to the initiative of the Russian Prince Putjatin. The Palaisteich underwent various modifications. Its banks were reinforced with stones in 1869, and iron railings were added along its sides. A swan house graced its center for a time, later relocated to the east. The current single-jet fountain likely dates back to the redesign of the Palais surroundings in 1874-75 under the direction of Friedrich Bouché. By 1890, the fountain was powered by the Grosser Garten’s dedicated waterworks. Following the devastation of World War II, the Palaisteich, along with the surrounding area, underwent significant restoration. In 1984, it received a new fountain capable of producing two distinct water displays: a single jet reaching an impressive 30 meters, or a combination of a 20-meter jet surrounded by seven smaller, inward-facing jets. Most recently, in 2001-2002, the Palaisteich underwent a major renovation. This included the installation of a clay seal to prevent water seepage and a thorough dredging. A new fountain with an 11-kilowatt floating unit was installed, its jet now reaching a height of 15 meters. Today, the Palaisteich is a vital part of the Grosser Garten’s ecosystem, fed by Kaitzbach water via the Carolasee. A large water funnel provides a haven for swans, ducks, and carp, while three spotlights illuminate the captivating water display in the evening. The Palaisteich stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and adaptability of this historical landmark.