The square was the site of the first documented German Christmas market, held in 1434.
During the medieval period, the square featured a permanent gallows and pillory for public punishments.
The name 'Altmarkt' (Old Market) was adopted to distinguish it from the newer 'Neumarkt' developed in the 16th century.
The current square layout was significantly altered during the post-WWII reconstruction to prioritize wide axes for parades.
The monument to the fallen in the 1953 uprising is located on the western edge of the square.
The Striezelmarkt is named after the 'Striezel', an early version of the traditional Dresden Christstollen fruit bread.
Altmarkt is the oldest square in Dresden, dating back to the city's founding in the 13th century. It served as the central marketplace and site for tournaments and public executions throughout the Middle Ages. The square was largely destroyed during the 1945 Allied bombing raids and subsequently reconstructed in a mix of socialist classicism and historical styles. It currently hosts the Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest documented Christmas markets in Germany. The north side is anchored by the Kreuzkirche, a significant Protestant church with a tower accessible for views of the city. A large fountain featuring the 'Stürmische Wogen' sculpture sits in the center of the square. Underground parking and the Altmarkt-Galerie shopping complex are integrated directly into the square's perimeter.
The center of the square looking toward the Kreuzkirche tower.
Walk the perimeter to observe the architectural transition between 1950s DDR-era buildings and the reconstructed historical facades.
Visit the tower of the neighboring Kreuzkirche for the best elevated perspective of the square's geometry.
Explore the Altmarkt-Galerie shopping mall if you need climate-controlled access to shops and dining.
Do not mistake the modern shopping mall architecture for the original historical city center, as much of the area was rebuilt after 1945.
The square is heavily occupied by the Striezelmarkt from late November through December 24th; traffic and pedestrian flow are restricted during this period.
