Moritzburg Castle - Baroque fairytale castle surrounded by nature
Nestled in an idyllic pond landscape, Moritzburg Castle rises majestically on an island. The magnificent baroque palace is a masterpiece of architecture and once served as a hunting and pleasure palace for the Saxon court. Today, it enchants visitors with its magnificent interior, its picturesque surroundings and its role as the location for the cult film Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella.
Highlights of Moritzburg Castle
Magnificent baroque architecture
Experience the imposing palace with its gold-decorated state rooms, impressive ceiling paintings and unique leather wallpaper.
Famous fairytale location
Visit the original location of the film Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella and discover a special exhibition on film history.
Idyllic castle grounds
Stroll through the baroque parkland, along the imposing avenues and enjoy the view over the glittering castle ponds.
A castle with a royal history
Moritzburg Castle looks back on over 450 years of history. Originally built as a hunting lodge, it was later transformed into a magnificent baroque pleasure palace and served as a glamorous venue for courtly festivities, hunts and prestigious receptions. Today, it is one of the most important baroque palaces in Germany.
The beginnings: Hunting lodge of the Wettins
In 1542, Duke Moritz of Saxony had a small Renaissance castle built. He used the property as a hunting lodge, as the surrounding forests and ponds offered ideal conditions for courtly par force hunting.
Augustus the Strong and the Baroque conversion
Moritzburg Palace took on its present form under Elector Augustus the Strong (1670-1733), who had the hunting lodge converted into a magnificent Baroque palace by the architect Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann between 1723 and 1733.
Special features of the conversion:
- Symmetrical architecture: Four round corner towers and a central main hall characterize the castle.
- Magnificent interiors: ornate stucco ceilings, gilded wall paneling and precious furniture reflect the splendor of the Baroque period.
- Hunting trophy collection: Over 700 antlers, including the world's largest stag antler, make the collection unique.
Augustus the Strong used the palace for lavish hunting parties with European nobles and dignitaries. The lavish celebrations were legendary, accompanied by theatrical performances, fireworks and lavish banquets.
Moritzburg Castle in the 19th and 20th centuries
After the end of the monarchy in 1918, the castle remained in the possession of the House of Wettin until it was expropriated after the Second World War. During the GDR era, it was used as a museum.
In 1973, Moritzburg Castle became world-famous as the location for the cult film "Three Nuts for Cinderella". Every year, thousands of fans visit the special exhibition with original costumes and props.
Moritzburg Castle today - a living cultural heritage
Today, Moritzburg Castle is an important museum with changing special exhibitions and exclusive events:
- Classical concerts and readings in historic rooms
- Fairytale weddings in a dreamlike setting
- Historical hunting festivals and themed tours
Thanks to continuous restoration work, the castle shines in its original splendor and remains an impressive testimony to Saxon history.
Visits and guided tours
Moritzburg Castle can be visited all year round. The state rooms, the hunting museum and the famous Cinderella exhibition make the visit particularly varied.
Opening times: Varies depending on the season - it's worth finding out in advance.
Admission: There are various tickets for the castle, special exhibitions and combined offers.
Guided tours: Audio guides and guided tours provide exciting insights into the history of the castle.
Arrival and surroundings
Moritzburg Castle is located about 15 kilometers from Dresden and is easily accessible by car or public transport. Parking is available in the immediate vicinity.
🚂 S pecial travel tip: The historic Lößnitzgrundbahn, a steam-powered narrow-gauge railroad, connects Radebeul with Moritzburg - a nostalgic journey through the beautiful countryside.
Its location on the castle pond makes Moritzburg the perfect destination for a day trip. Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Fasanenschlösschen or a relaxing boat trip on the pond.
Stay overnight in
our house
Welcome to the Churfuerstliche Waldschaenke - a historical jewel in the middle of the Moritzburg cultural landscape!
Here you can stay in a unique ambience, surrounded by nature and history. Situated between the castle and the Fasanenschlösschen, our hotel invites you to leave everyday life behind and enjoy pure relaxation.
