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has a simple, open layout where buildings from different periods - many rebuilt after World War II - create a blend of historical references and contemporary elements.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 name Altmarkt (Old Market) came into use around 1550, after a new market, the Neumarkt at the Frauenkirche, was laid out and the central square needed distinguishing. Since 1434 the square has hosted the Striezelmarkt, one of the world's oldest Christmas markets, held each December with rows of wooden stalls and a lit tree.

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 square's centre once held a 1880 monument by Robert Henze: a Germania statue over four metres tall, holding a laurel-decorated imperial flag and resting on a shield with the German eagle. Four allegorical figures at its base stood for military strength, peace, science and religion. Damaged in the 1945 raids, it was dismantled in June 1949.