Dresden Panometer
Sachsen
The Dresden Panometer is a unique museum located in a former gasometer in Dresden, Germany, displaying large-scale panoramic paintings by artist Yadegar Asisi. The venue features two alternating panoramas: "Baroque Dresden," depicting the city's skyline as it appeared in 1756, and "Dresden 1945," illustrating the devastation after World War II bombings. The panoramas are exhibited inside a 19th-century gas holder, whose circular architecture and vast interior provide an ideal setting for these immersive artworks. Visitors view the panoramas from a central raised platform, allowing a 360-degree perspective enhanced by realistic perspective techniques and an accompanying musical soundtrack. The museum also offers exhibitions with historic maps, original drawings, and artifacts such as a large bell from the Neustädter Rathaus, enriching the contextual experience. Since its opening in 2006, the Panometer has become a cultural landmark, blending art, history, and architecture to tell the story of Dresden's heritage and resilience.
Plan your trip to Germany with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit the Dresden Panometer on weekdays between 10 AM and 5 PM or on weekends and holidays until 6 PM for the best experience. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the venue's ticket office. Consider checking the schedule for special guided tours and temporary exhibitions. The alternating panoramas offer distinct perspectives, so plan your visit accordingly. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and children.
Interesting facts
- •The panoramic painting "Baroque Dresden" measures 27 meters in height and 105 meters in circumference, creating an immersive 360-degree view.
- •The Dresden Panometer is situated inside a former gasometer, a circular gas holder built in the late 19th century, which provides a unique architectural space for panoramic art.
- •The "Dresden 1945" panorama depicts the city immediately after the Allied bombing raids, highlighting the destruction and the broader impact on European cities during World War II.
- •The musical soundtrack accompanying the "Baroque Dresden" panorama was composed by Belgian artist Eric Babak.
- •The Panometer has welcomed over half a million visitors within its first two years of operation.
History
The Dresden Panometer is housed in a former gas holder built in 1879–80 in the Reick district of Dresden.
Artist Yadegar Asisi opened the Panometer in 2006, inspired by the success of his Leipzig Panometer established in 2003.
Initially, the Panometer exhibited the "Baroque Dresden" panorama portraying the city in 1756, coinciding with Dresden's 800-year anniversary.
Over the years, the exhibitions have evolved, including displays like "Rom 312" and the "Dresden 1945" panorama commemorating the city's destruction during World War II.
The Panometer continues to alternate exhibits, maintaining its role as a dynamic cultural institution.
Place Guide
Baroque Dresden Panorama2006
This panorama presents Dresden's skyline as it appeared in 1756 from the viewpoint of the Katholische Hofkirche. It is historically accurate with some artistic interpretation, displayed as a 360-degree circular painting 27 meters high and 105 meters in circumference. Visitors view it from a central raised platform, enhanced by a musical soundtrack.
Dresden 1945 Panorama2015
This panorama depicts Dresden after the Allied bombing in 1945, showing the extensive destruction of the city. It covers nearly 3,000 square meters and offers a 360-degree view from a 15-meter-high visitor tower, highlighting the tragedy and resilience of Dresden and other European cities affected by war.
Contact
Phone: 0351 48644242
