Schloss Pillnitz, Dresden

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There are three main palaces on the premises besides adjacent structures between them. They are called water palace and upper (berg) palace, and new palace. They were designed by Mathaus Popellman in late 1600's. The complex was acquired by the Wetting dynasty in 1694, and was for a mistress of John George IV who died shortly thereafter, as did she. Then Augustus the Strong thought this was a great idea, and used it for his mistress, who soon after ran away. He then converted it into a Chinese looking motif because he was enamored by Chinese and porcelain. There were a couple of fires that destroyed some of the buildings. In 1818 one burnt down and was replaced by the New Palace that was completed in 1826. Gentry lived here using it as a summer palace until 1918.
It sis located south of Dresden about 10 miles and along the Elbe. Open times are 10-5PM generally and lesser until 4PM in Nov-March. Entry to the three museums are 5, 4, and 3 Euro for Water, Ne and Berg palaces, but free with Schlosserland Saxon card

I can recommend to make a trip to Schloss Pillnitz. It´s closed by dresden and there are a beautiful romantic garden and park around. It´s great too every saison and you can relaxe so much on one of the lot´s of benches.

a little beautiful chateau a bit outside of Dresden next to the Elbe. I´ve been in Dresden last june (2002), so before the terrible high tide for the whole region around. But on one wall of the chateau next to the river are marks that show the highest levels of water through the centuries. Unfortunately I believe they reached a new high score last year or at least one of the hightest. And these marks are up the wall to the second flor of the building.....

Pilnitz: Great example of European architecture with Chinese and Italian style influences. What else? Oh, yes, I almost forgot... If you come in June, you will be able to attend the Elba festival: main shows taking place in Pilnitz. Lots of food (literally of any cuisine known to the humankind), drink, music and fireworks!

This is a beautiful castle called Pillnitz.

I scanned a postcard which I thought gives you a great view of the whole picture.

Schloß Pillnitz used to be the summer residence of the Saxonian kings. It is a beautiful palace with a nice museum inside and a fantastic park outside!

Don't miss it!