Dresden, Germany - A Baroque City Full of Natural Wonders

If you've ever dreamed of visiting Dresden, you're in for a treat. This article explores the city's baroque heyday, its connection to the far-right, and its economy. You'll also learn about the town's landscape and economics. But first, a quick history lesson. Dresden is the capital of Saxony and the second largest city within the state. It is also the third most populous city in the former East Germany.

Dresden's baroque heyday

Dresden, a popular travel destination in Germany, is a quaint city filled with attractions from the baroque era. The town was the capital of Saxony during the reign of August the Strong and has several Baroque landmarks to explore. Today, the city still boasts many architectural masterpieces from this time. Its baroque heyday was arguably the most successful era in the history of European art.

A 360-degree panorama created by Austrian artist Yadegar Asisi depicts life in the city during the baroque era in a disused telegraphic gasometer. The panoramic views, made possible by the gasometer's hollow interior, rotate to depict a historical panorama of Dresden. The panoramas depict Dresden during its baroque heyday, and are partly inspired by the famous paintings by Canaletto.

Its connection to the far-right

One study found that students from Dresden, Germany, were surprised by the far-right's link to the city and its history. The students were struck by the fact that far-right actors were able to shift the social climate without facing resistance from civil society. “It's really amazing how smart and determined far-right actors can be," said one student. “It's unbelievable that they can actually reach this large audience.”

Alternative for Deutschland (AfD), one of Germany's far-right parties, held a conference in Dresden last weekend to introduce new messaging and debate the official party platform. "A better world without refugees," the slogan reads, referring to a simpler time before globalization, the refugee crisis, and the pandemic. The slogan makes an impact on voters and has become a rallying cry for far-right activists across the country.

Its economy

As the cultural, political, and economic center of Eastern Germany, Dresden has experienced tremendous growth over the past two decades. It has grown to be the largest city in Eastern Germany, with a GDP per person comparable to most Western German cities. As a result, it has one of the most dynamic economies in all of Germany. However, the city is not without problems. Let's explore some major economic and social issues facing the city.

The local economy in Dresden is highly specialized, organized by industry sector. It is home to major firms such as Volkswagen, AMD, GlaxoSmithKline, and Infineon Technologies. Most expats in the city work in the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries, as well as electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. A majority of expatriates in Dresden also hold positions in the English-speaking community. The city's economy is also supported by the city's cultural sector.

Its landscape

With 63% of its total area being covered by greenery, Dresden is one of the greenest cities in Europe. A cohesive forest of 50 square kilometers is home to the Dresden Heath, and the city has four nature reserves and eighteen km2 of Special Areas of Conservation. In addition to its urban greenery, Dresden is also home to 110 natural monuments. The city is home to the Elbe Valley, a world heritage site focusing on the conservation of Dresden's cultural landscape, including the Elbe meadows and other natural spaces.

The landscape of Dresden is both dramatic and enchanting, with a mix of Mediterranean architecture and soviet GDR buildings. The city has been the economic, political, and cultural center of Eastern Germany since the reunification. Although dominated by the industrial age, Dresden now boasts an urban area that is the fourth largest in Germany. This beautiful setting has also led to the development of new neighborhoods in the city, which include the newly built Elbepark.

Its wine

The town of Pillnitz is home to one of the most well-known white wines in the world, the Silvaner. These crisp white wines are a staple of the city and have been enjoyed for centuries. Saxony's first saint, Benno von Meissen, is also credited with helping the area grow grapevines. Visitors to Dresden are sure to come away from the city with a taste of his wines.

The city of Dresden was a hub for art, music, and other cultural activities before World War II, which devastated the city. Fortunately, much of the city was restored after the war, and it has become one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. A walk along the River Elbe or the Pillnitz path will take you past Dresden Synagogue, which was reconstructed after the war. For something sweet and tasty, try visiting the Wippler Bakery, a traditional German dessert shop. For a relaxing afternoon, take a boat cruise along the River Elbe. The picturesque waterway features vineyards, castles, and villas.