© Walizki Jarek Kowalski

Meissen

The cradle of Saxony

Meissen - Welcome to the town where porcelain was born

Meissen’s origin goes back to the year 929 when Heinrich I had a castle built high above the Elbe river – and to this day, Albrechtsburg Castle, Germany's first castle to be built for residential purposes, is the town’s landmark. Throughout the centuries, Meissen’s history has been closely linked to the Saxon electors. In 1423, the town became a royal seat and is therefore considered the cradle of Saxony. The mighty Gothic cathedral next to the castle also reminds of this time.

The foundation for “Meissen” becoming a household name around the world was laid in 1709 when Augustus the Strong founded the Meissen Porcelain Factory as the first of its kind in Europe. Today, the MEISSEN® trademark with the two crossed blue swords stands for the finest porcelain creations. Don’t miss visiting the manufacturer's workshops for fascinating insights into a 300-year-old craft!

Presided over by Albrechtsburg Castle, Meissen's historic old town at the foot of the Burgberg hill is a real beauty. In the vicinity of the late Gothic town hall you will find romantic courtyards, craft shops, and the impressive Church of Our Lady. Handily, Meissen is also right in the middle of Saxony’s wine-growing region and the local produce is best enjoyed in one of the town’s quaint wine bars.

300 years

Meissen Porcelain Factory

1000 years old

Town of Meissen

274 years

Meissner Fummel – traditional sweet pastry

48 hours in Meissen

Unique architectural monuments, exciting museums, cobblestone lanes and culinary delights, including the local wine and the sweet pastry Meissner Fummel: Take a look at the most beautiful sights, things to do and insider tips for a long weekend in Meissen!

House of MEISSEN

Experience the world of Meissen porcelain

MEISSEN, Europe’s oldest porcelain factory, to this day creates the finest porcelain items, drawing on a treasure chest of designs and shapes going back 300 years. Visitors can experience what Meissen porcelain is all about and take a look behind the scenes at the House of MEISSEN, featuring exhibitions and workshops where the best craftspeople can be seen creating precious porcelain products. Tip: Round off your visit at the MEISSEN Café & Restaurant.

Our insider tips 

  • Wine from Meissen: Wine has been grown in the Elbe Valley for over 850 years and a tasting in one of Meissen’s traditional wine taverns is a must. Wine lovers will also enjoy hiking in the vineyards and visiting the cellars of a local winery along the Saxon Wine Route.

  • Church of Our Lady in Meissen: This late Gothic hall church was mostly built in the 15th century and features the world’s first playable glockenspiel made of Meissen Porcelain® which was installed here in the 20th century. The church tower is great for views across the town!

  • Holy Cross monastery ruins and Hahnemann Centre Meissen: A paradise for everyone interested in homeopathy, environmental education and ecological building.

„The purpose of art is to wash the dust of our daily lives from our souls.”
- Pablo Picasso -

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