Furstenzug

Parallel to Bruhl’s Terrace (a lovely promenade with spectacular buildings on the river bank) through a narrow cobblestoned street is the Furstenzug (also called the Procession of the Princes), a 335-foot long Meissen porcelain mural. Located on the outer walls of the Stallhof (the Stables Courtyard) of the Dresden Castle, the mural is a fantastic piece of art and is stunning to look at. The mural depicts the long line of Wettins, a dynasty of German margraves (medieval title given to military commander) counts, dukes and electors of kings of Saxony. The Wettins were never kings, only Electors or king-makers, but therein lay their influential role in German history, lasting more than 950 years. It is this history that is depicted on the Furstenzug. Of these nobles, Augustus the Strong, who ruled during early 18th century, was doubly powerful as he became King of Poland simultaneously. It was during his time that Dresden became the centre of art, music and culture, and he occupies a central portion in the mural as well as across Saxony.