Altmarkt, square in Dresden
The Altmarkt is a spacious open square in the heart of Dresden, bordered by the Kreuzkirche, the Altmarkt-Galerie shopping center, and the Kulturpalast concert hall. The plaza has a simple, open layout where buildings from different periods - many rebuilt after World War II - create a blend of historical references and contemporary elements.
The Altmarkt first appeared in written records during the 14th century as a market and gathering place for the developing city of Dresden. During World War II, the square suffered severe destruction in air raids on February 13, 1945, after which it was gradually rebuilt from the 1950s onward with modern structures including the Kulturpalast concert hall, which opened in the late 1960s.
The square takes its name from the need to distinguish it from the nearby Neumarkt - 'Alt' simply means the older of the two markets. Today, you can observe how it fills with life during Christmas markets, festivals, and daily trading, while locals use it as a central gathering point throughout the year.
The square is easily accessible on foot, with wide pathways that were renewed in 2022/2023 for improved access for all users. Surrounding the Altmarkt are narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and museums that are convenient for exploration before or after your time on the plaza.
The Renner department store, built on the south side in 1854, was famous for housing Dresden's first escalator - a fascinating detail from an era when such technology was a technological sensation. This shop remained a busy retail hub until its destruction in 1945 and shows how the square's history is intertwined with everyday moments and major technological advances.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
