The Three Elbe Castles
The event grounds of the Dresden Schlössernacht
The expansive event grounds of Dresden Schlössernacht stretch along the right bank of the Elbe, from Saloppe past the three Elbe Castles – Albrechtsberg Castle, Lingner Castle, and Eckberg Castle – following the gentle slopes of the Dresden Elbe Valley.
Thanks to its unique location and stunning parkland, this area is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Dresden. The Dresden residents recognized its charm over a century ago, which is why the Elbe Castles were built here in the first place.
Get an overview of the Three Elbe Castles and the Saloppe.
Albrechtsberg Castle
In the mid-19th century, Prince Albrecht of Prussia commissioned the construction of Albrechtsberg Castle on the Dresden Elbe slopes. Today, it is considered a significant late-classicist architectural landmark. When the City of Dresden acquired the castle in 1952, it laid the foundation for opening the estate to public events. The current usage concept focuses on preserving the architectural monument’s cultural and historical significance and highlighting the unique character of the entire castle complex.
The artistic education of children, once a central element of the former Pioneer Palace, continues today through the Youth Art School Dresden, which is based within the castle grounds. Additionally, the castle’s grand halls provide an elegant setting for a variety of special occasions.
Lingner Castle
From the terrace of Lingner Castle, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of exceptional beauty. In favorable weather conditions, the view stretches from the heights of the Ore Mountains, past the delicate "Blue Wonder" bridge in the east, all the way to the world-famous silhouette of Dresden’s Old Town in the west.
Originally built as Villa Stockhausen, the present-day Lingner Castle was designed by Berlin architect Adolph Lohse and constructed between 1850 and 1853. Today, the Lingnerschloss Association oversees the restoration and preservation of the building under the guiding principle: "Citizens engaging for their city."
As a place of encounter, inspiration, and exchange, Lingner Castle aims to serve as a symbol of openness, cultural diversity, creative freedom, and social transparency. Despite ongoing restoration efforts, the castle regularly hosts events and activities that attract numerous visitors.
Eckberg Castle
East of Lingner Castle, surrounded by lush greenery, stands the historic Eckberg Castle, exuding a unique charm and private atmosphere.
The castle was built between 1859 and 1861 on behalf of merchant Johann Souchay. It was designed under the supervision of Dresden architect Christian Friedrich Arnold, one of the most renowned students of Gottfried Semper, the architect of the Semper Opera House.
The expansive parklands with their ancient trees, the castle’s towers, nooks, and bay windows, as well as its elevated yet romantically secluded location above the river, all contribute to the site's picturesque character.
After being acquired by a Munich-based company, the castle and park underwent a comprehensive renovation in 1997. Today, Eckberg Castle is operated as a luxury hotel by the experienced husband-and-wife team Thomas and Odett Gaier.
Saloppe
Between Dresden’s Outer Neustadt and Albrechtsberg Castle, nestled on the Elbe slopes among majestic trees and small stone walls, lies Saloppe. A hidden gem of lively activity, it complements the event grounds of Dresden Schlössernacht.
As early as 1760, a ferryman operated a public tavern here, which was then just a simple wooden shack. Despite multiple demolitions, reconstructions, and changes in ownership, Saloppe has remained Dresden’s oldest and most beloved tavern.
Since the late 1990s, Saloppe has been renowned as a summer beer garden and event venue, hosting children’s and family festivals, the Dresden soapbox derby, and after-work parties.
