Many people know the town of Meissen for its world-famous “Meissen porcelain”. But what else does the city on the Elbe have to offer? On a beautiful summer’s day, we visited the most famous sights and photo spots such as the beautiful Old Town, the Market Square, Frauenkirche, Albrechtsburg Castle and the Cathedral.
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Interesting facts about the city of Meissen
Meissen is a historic town in Saxony and is located around 25 kilometers northwest of Dresden. The city stretches along the Elbe and is known for its impressive location surrounded by vineyards and historic buildings. Meissen has an impressive history dating back to the 9th century. The city is world-famous above all for the production of high-quality porcelain, which is prized worldwide as Meissen porcelain. The population of Meißen is currently around 27,000 people.
The history of Meissen is of great importance, as the city is considered the founding place of the Saxon duchy and has a long connection to the Wettin dynasty. Albrechtsburg Castle, one of Meissen’s most famous sights, is an impressive castle complex that was built in the 15th century and is considered the oldest castle in Germany. Also famous is Meissen Cathedral, an imposing Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline of the city and fascinates visitors with its impressive architecture.
The town of Meissen on the Elbe in Saxony
For more than 300 years, the world-famous Meissen porcelain manufactory has been producing exquisite porcelain goods that are renowned for their high quality and perfect craftsmanship. Visitors have the opportunity to visit the manufactory, take part in guided tours and admire the handmade porcelain. All in all, Meissen offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and natural beauty. The city is proud of its cultural heritage and attracts visitors from all over the world who want to experience its rich history and outstanding sights.
The most famous sights in Meissen
The old town of Meissen is easy to explore on foot and on your own. We parked our car directly after the Altstadtbrücke bridge on the Elbe (Kändlerpark parking lot, location in Google Maps). From here, the Elbstrasse takes you directly into the old town.
Historic old town
The old town of Meissen stretches along the Elbe and is characterized by well-preserved half-timbered houses, magnificent patrician houses, cobbled alleyways and a medieval atmosphere. The history of the old town dates back to the 10th century, when Meissen was founded as a royal castle town. Over the centuries, the town developed into an important trading center and was known worldwide for the production of Meissen porcelain in particular.
A stroll through the narrow streets and picturesque squares of the old town allows visitors to immerse themselves in the past and admire the architecture that has been preserved over the centuries. One photo motif chases the next 😉
Market square and town hall
The center of the old town is dominated by the market square, which is surrounded by historic buildings and stores offering Saxon craftsmanship and regional products. Here you will also find the town hall, which was built in the late Gothic style and is an impressive example of the architecture of the time. Meissen’s town hall not only serves as an administrative center, but also houses the town museum. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of the city and discover interesting exhibits.
The market square itself is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. Regular events, markets and festivals take place here, creating a lively atmosphere. The surrounding cafés, restaurants and stores invite you to linger and stroll around.
Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche in Meissen is one of the oldest churches in the city and its history dates back to the 13th century. The church impresses with its Gothic architecture, which is characterized by pointed arches and filigree stone carvings. The interior of the Frauenkirche is characterized by Gothic vaults, colourful windows and ornate altars. The church also houses valuable works of art, including the famous triptych of St. Francis by Lukas Cranach the Elder.
Burggasse
Burggasse in Meissen is a charming and historic street that leads from the market square directly to Albrechtsburg Castle. It is characterized by picturesque half-timbered houses and historic buildings that convey an atmosphere of times gone by. Along Burggasse there are various cozy cafés, restaurants and stores where visitors can sample local specialties and discover regional craftsmanship. Here you can also taste the traditional Meissen wines, which are famous for the region.
Castle hill
The Burgberg in Meissen is a prominent elevation on which Albrechtsburg Castle and the cathedral are located. The castle hill rises 458 meters above the roofs of the old town and offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside. The ascent to the castle hill is possible on foot, by car or by panoramic elevator.
Albrechtsburg
Albrechtsburg Castle towers high above the city on the castle hill and is now considered one of the oldest castle complexes in Germany. Albrechtsburg Castle was built from 1471 by the Wettin Electors and Dukes of Saxony on the site of an older medieval castle in the late Gothic style. It impresses with its imposing façade, magnificent interiors and ornate decorations.
The palace was once the residence of the Saxon electors and served as a symbol of their power and wealth. Today, Albrechtsburg Castle is home to a museum that offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of Meissen and the production of the world-famous porcelain. The exhibition presents a variety of exhibits, including precious porcelain pieces and historical artifacts that shed light on the craftsmanship of porcelain production.
In addition to the impressive architecture and the exciting museum experience, Albrechtsburg Castle also offers a spectacular panoramic view over the city of Meissen and the River Elbe. From the viewing platforms, you can admire the picturesque landscape and the characteristic red roofs of the old town.
Meissen Cathedral
Meissen Cathedral, officially known as St. John the Evangelist Cathedral, is a religious building and one of the most outstanding sights. The cathedral is a Gothic cathedral that was built in the 13th century and dominates the cityscape with its two striking towers. Inside the cathedral you will find an impressive collection of works of art and historical relics. The “Golden Portal” of the cathedral, which is decorated with filigree sculptures and reliefs, is particularly noteworthy. The cathedral is also home to the tombs of many important personalities, including members of the Saxon royal family.
Meissen Porcelain Museum
The history of Meissen porcelain goes back to the beginning of the 18th century, when it was developed by Johann Friedrich Böttger and Ehrenfried Walther von Tschirnhaus in Meissen. Originally, however, the Saxon Elector Augustus the Strong was interested in producing gold – because Böttger had boasted that he could produce gold from worthless materials. However, his experiments did not lead to gold, but to the invention of European porcelain on January 15, 1708. This makes the “Royal Polish and Electoral Saxon Porcelain Manufactory”, founded in 1710, one of the oldest and most renowned porcelain manufactories in Europe.
Meissen porcelain is characterized by its fine quality, exquisite designs and craftsmanship. It is made by highly skilled craftsmen and artists who preserve centuries-old techniques and traditions. Each piece of porcelain is unique. The characteristic features of the porcelain are the iconic blue swords, the manufactory’s trademark, as well as the elaborate decorations, filigree reliefs and vibrant colors. From classic and traditional designs to modern and contemporary creations, Meissen porcelain offers a wide range of styles and motifs.
Meissen porcelain has been made in just one production facility for over 300 years: From 1710 in Albrechtsburg Castle and since the early 1860s in the workshops in Triebischtal. To this day, all Meissen porcelain is made here entirely by hand – from modeling and firing to finishing and painting.
The Meissen Porcelain Museum (HAUS MEISSEN Experience) presents an impressive collection of porcelain pieces from different eras and styles. From historical and classical works to contemporary and experimental creations, visitors are introduced to the diversity and artistic range of porcelain. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the handcrafted porcelain processes and watch the artisans at work. There will also be workshops and demonstrations where visitors can get creative and design their own little porcelain masterpiece.
A visit to the town of Meissen is absolutely worthwhile – especially if you are already in Dresden anyway and want to make a nice day trip to the surrounding area. The rail connection is perfect: it takes 34 minutes to reach Meissen station from the Saxon city.