What’s Worth Seeing in Meißen?
In early March, life compelled me to take a trip to Meißen, despite it being out of season. The weather wasn’t on my side; it rained incessantly, and one morning, I woke up to find a 5-centimeter snowfall. However, the weather didn’t deter me. Armed with my umbrella, I ventured out and explored as much as I could.
Meißen faced a devastating flood in 2013 when the Elbe River inundated the castle. But now, there is no trace of that event. The city looks remarkable and is well-preserved. The traditional buildings are in excellent condition, especially the downtown area, which is incredibly clean and tidy. Walking through the charming streets of the old town up to the castle was a delightful experience.
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Meißen is famous for its porcelain, and you’ll find numerous attractive restaurants, design shops, and porcelain stores in the old town. Despite the bad weather and being off-peak season, the city center was quiet but still cozy.
The main attractions include Albrechtsburg Castle, renowned for its porcelain production, Frauenkirche church, Meißen Cathedral, and Proschwitz Castle vineyards, with a history dating back to the mid-12th century. Additionally, there’s a renovated castle, and a restaurant offering delicious food and wine, all awaiting visitors.
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Albrechtsburg Castle
Albrechtsburg Castle holds a significant place in history, as porcelain production started here in 1710 during the reign of Polish King Augustus. It ran for over 300 years, with the first 150 years taking place in the Albrechtsburg Castle before being moved to Meißen-Triebischtal. Visitors can witness the process of making world-famous porcelain in the factory and participate in guided tours, porcelain paintings, and workshops at the museum.
To learn more about workshops and tickets, you can check out the official website of the museum.
Porcelain production
The Albrechtsburg Castle, constructed in the late Gothic style by Arnold of Westphalia in 1471 on the banks of the Elbe, is where the Saxon Royal Porcelain Factory was established in 1710. It underwent restoration by János György and was beautifully decorated with murals. The Gothic Cathedral is located next to the Albrechtsburg and was built on the site of a church established by Emperor Otto I. Notably, one of its chapels houses the tombs of Frederick the Warrior and several other Saxon princes.
To learn more about tickets, you can chack out the official website here.
Frauenkirche church
Parking in Meißen
For visitors planning to explore Meißen, it’s advisable to park on the east bank of the Elbe at the free parking lot called “Parkplatz an der Elbe.” From here, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the city center. Although there are several parking lots on both sides of the Elbe, some on the west side, closer to the Albrechtsburg, may require payment.
Summary
Meißen is a well-preserved city famous for its porcelain production. The main attractions include Albrechtsburg Castle, Frauenkirche church, Meißen Cathedral, and Proschwitz Castle vineyards. The castle holds a significant place in history as it was where the Saxon Royal Porcelain Factory was established in 1710. The city center was quiet but still cozy, despite the bad weather and being off-peak season. It’s advisable to park on the east bank of the Elbe at “Parkplatz an der Elbe.”