Dresden, the capital city of the German state of Saxony, is a city steeped in history and culture. From its origins as a medieval settlement on the Elbe’s northern bank to its role in the Cold War as a center of espionage, Dresden has always been a city of intrigue and innovation.
On this tour, you will discover the city's rich heritage and explore its diverse range of cultural, historical, and scientific landmarks. From the Baroque architecture of the iconic Semper Opera House and the Zwinger Palace to the lesser-known stories of secret agents, inventors, and revolutionaries, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Dresden.

A TOUR OF DRESDEN'S INTRIGUING HISTORY
Forsyth's Cold War Secrets: MI5 in Dresden
One of the most intriguing figures associated with Dresden is Frederick: Forsyth, the British author, and former journalist. He is best known for writing thrillers such as "The Day of the Jackal" and "The Odessa File." During the Cold War, Forsyth worked as a secret agent for MI5, the British domestic intelligence agency. In the early 1960s, he was sent to East Germany as a reporter for Reuters, where he used his position to gather intelligence for MI5. He reportedly smuggled secrets out of Dresden by hiding them in his typewriter and disguising the documents as news stories. This information was then used by MI5 to track the movement of Soviet agents in Western Europe. He also wrote a book about his experiences in East Germany called "The Shepherd."
From Dresden Kitchen to Global Industry
Another important figure in Dresden's history is Amalie Melitta Bentz, who, in 1908, invented the coffee filter in her kitchen. Bentz was frustrated by the gritty residue that traditional coffee-making methods left in her cup, so she decided to experiment with different methods of filtering the coffee grounds. Eventually, she hit upon the idea of using a paper filter, and her invention revolutionized the way coffee is brewed and consumed. Today, the company founded by her family, Melitta, is a leading producer of coffee filters and other coffee-related products.
The Revolutionary Composer
Dresden also has a rich musical history, with composer Richard Wagner having a connection to the revolutionary forces of the Dresdener Uprising of 1849. The revolution was a failed attempt to overthrow the monarchy of Saxony. It is believed that Wagner, who was living in Dresden then, supported the revolutionaries. Despite this involvement, Wagner's music was later embraced by the German state, and he became one of the most celebrated composers of his time.
Toothpaste Origins: A reason to smile
One of the most surprising facts about Dresden is that the city was also the birthplace of toothpaste. In 1907, the city saw the invention of toothpaste by pharmacist Ottomar Heinsius von Mayenburg. Mayenburg was a pharmacist and inventor who sought to create a more effective toothpowder than traditional cleaning methods. He experimented with different ingredients and eventually developed a toothpaste that was both easy to use and effective in cleaning teeth. This invention was a turning point in the oral care industry and revolutionized how people care for their teeth.
The life story of King Augustus the Strong
King Augustus the Strong, also known as Augustus II, was a ruler of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Elector of Saxony during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. He is best known for his military campaigns and patronage of the arts and sciences. Augustus was born in 1670 in Dresden, Germany, and became the Elector of Saxony in 1694. He was elected King of Poland in 1697 and reigned until 1733. He led several military campaigns during his reign, including the Great Northern War, which expanded the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Augustus was also a patron of the arts and sciences, and under his rule, Dresden became a center of culture and learning. Many of the city's most famous buildings and museums, including the Zwinger Palace and the Royal Palace, were built during his reign. Augustus was also an enthusiastic collector of art and science, and his collection formed the basis of the famous Green Vault in Dresden. Today, many tourists visit Dresden to learn more about King Augustus the Strong and his impact on the city and the region.
Consequences of Building the Waldschlosschenbrucke
In recent years, Dresden made headlines for losing its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 due to the building of the Waldschlosschenbrucke, a modern bridge. It was the first time a European site had ever been delisted and only the second time worldwide. The decision to build the bridge was met with widespread criticism and sparked a debate about the balance between preserving historical sites and modern infrastructure development. Despite this setback, Dresden remains a must-see destination for any traveler.