Here's Why Dresden Became Known As Florence Of The North

Both Florence and Dresden are resplendent in history and culture. These cities were rebuilt from rubble after suffering devastating destruction during the Second World War. The two river-side cities boast a silhouette of breathtaking architecture and preserve exemplary art and sculpture. So it seems only fitting that Dresden be known as Florence of the North.

“History, Stephen said, is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake.” ― James Joyce, Ulysses

The cities of Florence and Dresden share a history that is both tumultuous and inspiring. Both these cities were hit hard by the Second World War. Almost the entire city of Dresden, including its magnificent architecture, was razed to the ground by Allied bombers. Similarly, many buildings in Florence were blown up by Allied bombers during German occupation in 1943-44. When the New Zealand army eventually liberated Tuscany, the retreating German army blew up several bridges in Florence. When the war was over, while Dresden and Florence mourned this meaningless carnage, both cities rose with grace from their ashes to once again become the charismatic cities they are today.

“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” ― Pablo Picasso

Dresden too has earned its repute as one of the most scintillating destinations for art in Europe. The Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden is among the most ancient and famous institutions of its kind in the world, and operates 12 art, sculpture, painting and ethnography museums located at the Dresden Castle, the Zwinger and the Albertinum. The most famous art museum in Dresden has to be the Old Masters Painting Gallery, which houses a range of invaluable artwork, from the 15th century to 18th century, including the works of Raphael, Correggio & Vermeer.

“We shape our buildings; thereafter, they shape us.” –Winston Churchill

Like Florence, Dresden is an incredibly photogenic city, thanks to its majestic skyline. While the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral) adds immense character to the Florence cityscape, Frauenkirche is the gem of Dresden’s. In both these cities, art and architecture go hand in hand, as most of the museums and galleries are also architectural wonders; for example, Pitti Palace, Palazzo Vechhio, Bargello in Florence; and Zwinger, Albertinum and the Dresden Castle in Dresden.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.