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The Wettin electors and dukes of Saxony had a Late Gothic residential palace built on the hill overlooking Meissen from 1471 onwards, replacing a previous mediaeval castle. Albrechtsburg Castle was the first royal castle built for purely residential purposes in Germany. From 1710 to 1863, it also housed the workshops of the famous Meissen porcelain manufactory. The castle is today a museum and open to the public.
Albrechtsburg Castle
Meissen Cathedral
Meissen Cathedral, which is dedicated to Saints John and Donatus of Arezzo, was built in the Gothic style between 1260 and 1410. Together with Albrechtsburg Castle, the bishop's palace and the cathedral provostry, Meissen Cathedral is part of the Burgberg ensemble above Meissen's old town.
Market Square
The historical centre of Meissen is clustered around the market place beneath the castle and cathedral. Besides narrow winding alleys, attractive townhouses and romantic courtyards, visitors can look forward to countless craft shops and cosy inns and restaurants. One highlight is the porcelain carillon in the tower of the town church, whose bells can be heard at the top of every hour.
