Albrechtsburg Castle    

The Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle towers over the scenic Elbe River valley majestically. The late-Gothic style castle was built back during the fifteenth century, and is recognized as Germany’s oldest palace building. Over the years, Albrechtsburg has taken on the role of that of a trendsetter, and not just in a context of architecture. Guests can visit the Albrechtsburg Castle and allow themselves to be enchanted as they explore the building’s timeless beauty.

• What is the focus of Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • The focus of Albrechtsburg is on the castle’s function as a building of representative residence. As the oldest palace in the country of Germany, the Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle was already deemed a setter of trends during its time of construction, putting people in awe due to its spectacular late-Gothic style architectural design. Since the castle complex’s emergence, Albrechtsburg has always been thought of as a trendsetter.
• What can visitors experience at Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • With the interactive and modern permanent exhibition at Albrechtsburg Castle, it certainly lives up to the trendsetter reputation. All of the floors of Albrechtsburg are open for visitors to explore today.
• What sections are included in the permanent exhibition at Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • The permanent exhibit at the castle is divided among five different shows and sections: A Painted Picture Book of the History of the Dynasty and of the State, The Albrechtsburg as a Production Site for Porcelain, The Albrechtsburg as a Residential Seat, The Wettins as Residents and Rulers, and Its Fascinating Architecture.
• What features enhance the permanent exhibition at Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • The exhibition on permanent display at Albrechtsburg Castle meets the highest standard in requirements for a museum presentation. Interactive media stations and virtual enactments complete the architecture of the exhibition, allowing guests to immerse themselves into the interesting history of Albrechtsburg.
• What additional features are available for visitors at Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • In addition to this permanent display, visitors can also explore the new rooms located on the castle’s ground floor that regularly feature special exhibits on varying topics, many of which often relate to the fine arts.
• When was Albrechtsburg Castle constructed and by whom?
  • The late-Gothic Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle complex was constructed between the year 1471 and the year 1524 by the request of two brothers, Albert and Ernest of Wettin, who at the time ruled Saxony jointly. The palace was intended to not only be a new residence for the rulers, but it was to act as a representative administration center as well.
• What was the intended purpose of Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • Rather than serve as a purpose of defense of the Saxony region, Albrechtsburg was meant to be used as a palace instead of the traditional use of a castle. It was the first of its kind in the history of German architecture.
• Was Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle used for its original purpose?
  • The Albrechtsburg Castle in Meissen, however, was never used for its original intended function. Ernest and Albert of Wetting split up the Wetting territory while the palace was still being constructed. It was used on occasion from time to time to hold receptions or host hunting parties. The Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle most often though remained unused.
• How was Albrechtsburg Castle used by Augustus the Strong?
  • In 1710, Augustus the Strong was the only one to actively use the palace. Rather than a residence, he used Albrechtsburg as the first porcelain manufactory in Europe. Porcelain was made in Albrechtsburg Castle for one hundred and fifty-three years.
• When was porcelain production moved out of Albrechtsburg Castle?
  • In 1863, the porcelain production was moved out of the palace’s Gothic rooms.

Domplatz 1, Meißen, Germany, Phone: 49-3-52-14-70-70

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