If you had to list Dresden's most famous sights, it would probably the Frauenkirche, the Semper Opera and, of course, the Zwinger, the Baroque masterpiece that owes is existence to Saxony's most famous ruler, August the Strong. It's name, though, is a bit of a curious case. Historically speaking, a Zwinger in German is an open area between two defensive walls that is used for defensive purposes. The name dates back to previous usages of the area. The current Zwinger, however,was never used for strategic reasons, but as a place for lavish gatherings and entertainment.
August the Strong, who wasn't only Elector of Saxony but also King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania, was a lover of the fine arts that almost searches his equal in German history. He established Dresden as a major cultural centre, attracting artists from across Europe to his court. The Zwinger was just one of his many endeavors. But how did he come up with the idea? On his grand tour through France a…
