Remarks
According to the initial idea by Augustus the Strong, only an orangery should be built in the location of the old fortress. What can be seen now? A magnificent architectural ensemble designed by its architect Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann (1662-1736). The latter changed the initial project, and ended with this jewel. The Zwinger consists of an esplanade surrounded with galleries and pavilions. To get the best overall view, enter by the Chimes Pavillion. You will be struck by the omnipresent harmonious alliance between the architecture and the sculpted work due to the Balthasar Permoser workshop. Only the Hercules bearing the world sculpted group surmounting the Rampart pavilion** is signed by this Bavarian artist influenced by his Italian trips. From the Rampart pavilion a staircase leads you to the Nymphs' Bath**. This grotto of Italian inspiration consists of caves and fountains. On the south-west side, you will admire the Zwingergalerie and particularly the outer façade overlooking the Zwinger canal. To do so you will have to pass through the Crown Door. The door, which is decorated with statues representing the Four Seasons, owes its name more to the Polish crown borne by four eagles surmounting the two superimposed arcades. Opposite the Zwingergalerie, the north-east wing built in 1847 by Gottfried Semper occupies the part of the complex allocated in 1728 for the exhibition of the royal collections.