Procession of Princes - group of people riding horses
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Procession of Princes

4.8
·4k reviews·Dresden, Germany

A breathtaking 102-meter porcelain mural depicting Saxon rulers, it's the world's largest of its kind.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Procession of Princes - group of people riding horses

Procession of Princes

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking 102-meter porcelain mural depicting Saxon rulers, it's the world's largest of its kind.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"The sheer size and craftsmanship of the porcelain mural are incredible, and it's amazing how well it's been preserved."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and get the best shots of this massive mural.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

The mural is a perfect stop while wandering Dresden's historic center. Enjoy nearby cafes afterward!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Porcelain Mural

The Grand Porcelain Mural

A breathtaking 102-meter long artwork made of over 23,000 Meissen porcelain tiles, depicting Saxon rulers.

Genealogy of the Wettin Dynasty

Genealogy of the Wettin Dynasty

Trace the lineage of Saxon rulers, from princes to kings, in this vibrant historical narrative.

World's Largest Porcelain Mural

World's Largest Porcelain Mural

Marvel at the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this unique, world-record-holding open-air artwork.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Procession of Princes is an outdoor mural, visiting during off-peak hours, especially on weekdays, can offer a more intimate experience. Weekends and holidays can see crowds, making it harder to appreciate the intricate details.

Free and Accessible History

This stunning porcelain mural is completely free to view and easily accessible on foot within Dresden's Old Town. No tickets are required, making it a spontaneous and budget-friendly addition to your itinerary.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Royal Procession of The Royal Wedding Prince Mateen and Anisha Rosnah Happy Wedding Prince !! Pernikahan yang diimpikan banyak orang.. hehe.. Prince Mateen menikah Prince Mateen and Anisha Rosnah #princemateen #princeabdulmateen #sultanhasanalbolkiah #bruneidarussalam #prince #princess Prince Mateen Menikah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....
@temenkamucerita
232.3K likes • 3.5M views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and get the best shots of this massive mural. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

The mural is a perfect stop while wandering Dresden's historic center. Enjoy nearby cafes afterward! Reddit

The #King and #QueenConsort will travel the same route in a procession to and from #WestminsterAbbey on 6 May, where the #coronation #ceremony will take place. Here is a 3D depiction of the route and #ceremony in #WestminsterAbbey. Watch more coronation videos @Sky News
@skynews
154.1K likes • 3.6M views
Fürstenzug, Procession of Princes, Dresden, Germany 🇩🇪 #history #fürstenzug #dresden #europe #porcelain #saxony
2min2know
103 likes • 1.7K views

✨ Appreciate the Detail

Take your time to notice the intricate details of the porcelain tiles and the historical figures depicted. Reddit

🆓 It's Free!

Enjoy this incredible piece of art without any admission fee. Reddit

Worth the early wake up call? ⏰ • 📍 Procession of Princes, Dresden 🇩🇪 ••••• 🇩🇪 War es das frühe Aufstehen wert? ⏰ • 📍 Fürstenzug, Dresden 🇩🇪 • • #dresden #germany #architecturephotography #oldtown #deutschland #visitgermany #schlösserlandsachsen #simplysaxony #frauenkirche #traveleurope #europetravel #travelphotography #reiseliebe
voyagefox_
8.7K likes • 184.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and get the best shots of this massive mural. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Old Town

The mural is a perfect stop while wandering Dresden's historic center. Enjoy nearby cafes afterward! Reddit

✨ Appreciate the Detail

Take your time to notice the intricate details of the porcelain tiles and the historical figures depicted. Reddit

🆓 It's Free!

Enjoy this incredible piece of art without any admission fee. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and exquisite detail of the Procession of Princes, often calling it a 'must-see' in Dresden. The use of Meissen porcelain and the historical narrative are frequently highlighted as exceptional. While generally a positive experience, some note that weekend crowds can make photography challenging.

"The Fürstenzug took me by surprise—so detailed and grand, yet tucked along a quiet street. From my perspective, it’s one of those places that really brings history to life. The scale and craftsmanship of the porcelain mural are incredible, and it’s amazing how well it’s been preserved. It’s definitely worth pausing here while exploring the old town—it doesn’t take long, but it leaves a lasting impression."

Koel Ganguly

"What an excellent and exquisite display of porcelain art. I believe the art shows a march of the Saxon ruler dynasty and is the larger porcelain mural in the world. When you come upon the wall, the sheer size of it is jaw dropping. You won’t be able to believe what you are seeing. It is beautiful. This is a must see sight when you visit Dresden."

Anand

"Once I arrived in Dresden, I had to take the latest available train to see this. It’s more than I expected. On weekends, this alley can get a little crowded, so you might have to wait a while to get a good picture. :)"

Minh Nguyen

What People Like

Massive porcelain mural
Intricate historical detail
World's largest artwork

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) is located on a street in Dresden's Old Town (Altstadt), easily accessible on foot. If you're arriving by public transport, tram lines 3, 7, and 8 stop near the Altmarkt, which is a short walk away. Reddit

Parking in Dresden's Old Town can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a designated parking garage like the Altmarkt-Galerie or Postplatz. Reddit

Yes, the Procession of Princes is very close to the Frauenkirche. It's a pleasant, short walk through the historic streets of Dresden's Altstadt. Reddit

The mural is located on a street, and the surrounding sidewalks are generally accessible. However, some cobblestone areas in the Old Town might present minor challenges. Reddit

From Neustadt, you can take a tram across the river to the Altstadt. Tram lines 3, 7, or 8 will get you close to the mural's location. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Procession of Princes is an outdoor mural and is completely free to view. You can admire it at any time without needing a ticket. Reddit

As an outdoor mural, there are no specific opening hours. You can visit the Procession of Princes at any time of day or night. Reddit

There is no admission fee. The Procession of Princes is a public artwork accessible to everyone free of charge. Reddit

Yes, you can visit the mural even during events like the Christmas market. However, expect larger crowds during these times. Reddit

While there isn't a specific tour for just the mural, many general Dresden Old Town tours will include it as a point of interest. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. The golden hour light can make the porcelain tiles glow beautifully. Reddit

No, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. It's a public artwork, so feel free to capture its grandeur. Reddit

Visiting early in the morning on a weekday is your best bet for crowd-free photos. Otherwise, be patient and wait for a lull in foot traffic. Reddit

Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full length of the mural. Consider a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light conditions. Reddit

Drone usage in Dresden's city center is generally restricted due to airspace regulations and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid flying drones here. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Art

The mural depicts a procession of Saxon rulers from the Wettin dynasty, showcasing their history and lineage. It also includes figures representing various professions and social classes. Reddit

It's made of over 23,000 Meissen porcelain tiles, making it the largest porcelain mural in the world. Reddit

The original artwork was painted between 1871 and 1876, and it was later replaced with porcelain tiles from 1904 to 1907 to ensure its longevity. Reddit

The mural was commissioned to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the House of Wettin's rule in Saxony. Reddit

It's a significant historical and artistic landmark, representing the rich heritage of Saxony and showcasing Dresden's renowned porcelain craftsmanship. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the mural is located in Dresden's Old Town, which is filled with numerous cafes, restaurants, and traditional German eateries. Reddit

You'll find a variety of options, from casual cafes serving coffee and pastries to restaurants offering hearty Saxon cuisine and international dishes. Reddit

While there are no specific restrictions, it's generally best to finish any food or drinks before approaching the mural to avoid accidental damage or littering. Reddit

Absolutely! Many charming cafes are located just off the street where the mural is. It's a great spot to relax and reflect on what you've seen. Reddit

There aren't designated picnic areas right at the mural, but you can find benches in nearby squares or parks in the Old Town to enjoy a picnic. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) is a fantastic, free activity for families exploring Dresden. Its sheer size and the colorful depictions of historical figures can capture children's imaginations. It's a great way to introduce them to history in a visually engaging way, without the need for a formal museum visit. Reddit

Tip: Make it a treasure hunt! Challenge kids to find specific figures or animals within the mural. Afterward, you can easily find kid-friendly cafes nearby for a treat. The mural's location in the Old Town also means you can combine it with other easily accessible sights. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) is an absolute gem. It's completely free to view and offers a significant cultural and historical experience without costing a cent. Its central location in Dresden's Old Town means you can easily incorporate it into a walking tour of the city's main attractions. Reddit

Recommendation: Combine your visit with exploring other free sights like the Frauenkirche (exterior) and the Brühl's Terrace. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park, saving money on meals while still soaking in the atmosphere of historic Dresden. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) offers a unique photographic opportunity, especially with its world's largest porcelain mural status. The long, horizontal format and the intricate details of the Meissen tiles provide ample creative possibilities. The play of light on the porcelain can create stunning effects, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Pro-Tip: To capture the mural's full scale, use a wide-angle lens. For the best shots without crowds, aim for early weekday mornings. Consider capturing details of individual figures or the texture of the tiles to add depth to your portfolio. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Meissen Porcelain

The Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) is not just a mural; it's a testament to the world-renowned Meissen porcelain. This exquisite artwork is composed of over 23,000 individual porcelain tiles, each meticulously crafted and fired to withstand the elements. The use of porcelain was a deliberate choice to ensure the mural's longevity, a stark contrast to the original painted version which had deteriorated over time. This commitment to durable artistry highlights Dresden's historical connection to fine craftsmanship and innovation in ceramics. Reddit

The scale of the mural, stretching an impressive 102 meters, is a feat in itself. It's recognized as the largest porcelain mural in the world, a title that draws visitors eager to witness its grandeur. The vibrant colors and intricate details, preserved by the porcelain, bring the historical procession to life, making it a truly immersive experience for anyone who stops to admire it. Reddit

When you stand before the Fürstenzug, take a moment to appreciate the technical skill involved. The seamless integration of thousands of tiles, the vibrant hues that have endured for over a century, and the sheer ambition of the project all contribute to its status as a must-see attraction in Dresden. It’s a piece of art that tells a story through its material as much as its imagery. Reddit

A Journey Through Saxon History

The Procession of Princes (Fürstenzug) serves as a magnificent open-air history book, chronicling the genealogy of the Wettin dynasty, the ruling house of Saxony for centuries. The mural doesn't just feature the prominent princes and kings; it also includes a diverse array of figures, from scientists and artisans to farmers and children. This inclusive portrayal offers a more comprehensive and human perspective on the region's past, showing the contributions of all walks of life. Reddit

Originally created to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Wettin dynasty's rule, the mural's transition from paint to porcelain in the early 20th century ensured its story could be told for generations to come. It’s a visual narrative that spans from the medieval era to the early 20th century, offering a unique educational experience for visitors of all ages. Reddit

Beyond the royal lineage, the artwork subtly educates about the social fabric of Saxony. By depicting various professions and everyday people alongside the rulers, the Fürstenzug emphasizes that history is shaped by everyone. It’s a powerful reminder of the collective effort that builds a society and preserves its legacy. Reddit

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