Wonder at the sheer opulence of the collection of treasures in the Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe). Established by Augustus the Strong in 1723, the Green Vault is a twinkling constellation of riches and among Europe’s oldest museums. See awe-inspiring jewelry, golden treasures and precious items hewn from amber, ivory and gemstones, which span from the Baroque to the Classical European periods.
Augustus’ original Green Vault was a remarkable display of wealth and power, its hallowed halls only visible to an exclusive few. Severely damaged by bombing during World War II, the exquisite gesamtkunstwerk (total work of art) remained closed to visitors for over 50 years. Today, however, you can choose between two spectacular exhibitions: the New Green Vault and the Historic Green Vault.
Enter the first floor of the Dresden Castle to find the Historic Green Vault. With ornate gilded consoles and mirrored walls, the restored chamber is a Baroque work of art in itself. Explore the themed displays, including the Amber Cabinet, the Ivory Room, the White Silver Room, the Hall of Precious Objects and the Jewel Room. Examine richly decorated vessels, statuettes, goldsmith’s artworks and opulent jewelry. Approximately 3,000 courtly treasures collected from around the world glimmer in the mirrored light.
Make your way upstairs to the second floor to reach the New Green Vault. Rather than a gesamtkunstwerk, this exhibition is laid out in modern displays that focus on individual items. Admire over 1,000 selected masterworks up close and appreciate the intricate detail in each piece. Highlights include the golden coffee serving set, as well as precious items clad in enamel, ostrich eggshell and mother-of-pearl.
Both Green Vault exhibitions are located within Dresden Castle (Residenzschloss), which is situated in the heart of the city’s Old Town. A ticket for the Dresden Castle complex includes access to the New Green Vault, but the Historic Green Vault has separate admission fees. There are a limited number of admissions to the Historic Green Vault per day, so purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Both exhibitions are closed on Tuesdays.
