Beyer-Bau, Dresden

The Beyer-Bau is a university building at the Technical University of Dresden with red brick facades, two internal courtyards, and a 40 meter-high tower functioning as an astronomical observatory. The structure houses the Faculty of Civil Engineering, the Institute for Applied Photophysics, and the Chair of Astronomy.

Martin Dülfer designed this civil engineering faculty building, which opened in 1913 with Saxon King Friedrich August III in attendance. The tower was among Germany's early tall structures and represented a turning point in the university's architectural direction.

The building displays northern German architectural elements with red brick and narrow windows that stand apart from typical Dresden styles. This distinctive appearance shapes the campus landscape and draws immediate attention as you walk across the grounds.

The grounds are accessible for visitors to view from the outside, with the courtyards offering a good sense of the design. It is best to explore the surroundings during daytime and watch for information plaques on site.

The tower houses the Lohrmann Observatory with a large lens telescope and astronomical instruments that researchers have used for over 100 years. This collection makes it a working center for astronomical observations with significant scientific importance.

Location: Dresden

Inception: 1910

Official opening: October 11, 1913

Part of: TU Dresden

GPS coordinates: 51.02970,13.72940

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:43