If you visit Dresden you must go to The Green Vault. It is, simply, the most stunning collection of treasures, mainly collected by Augustus the Strong in the early 18th century.

The range, number and quality of objects on display is simply breathtaking. There are objects in ivory, rock crystal and coral. There are ornate, amazing clocks and caskets. It is difficult to pick out one highlight, but I would suggest that the Throne of the Grand Mogul Aurangzeb is the star.

In many other museums you might find one piece like this among some really rather dull stuff. In The Green Vault it is but one of a constellation, even galaxy, of star pieces. It is the best museum/gallery I have ever seen. Be prepared to spend a long time here.

The New Grunes Gewolbe (Green Vault)
Residenzschloss, Sophienstrasse.
Near The Zwinger and Semper Opera House.

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This Old Masters Picture Gallery is attached to the Zwinger (the former royal palace) and was rebuilt in 1964 under the old East German state.

It has an outstanding range of work from the late Middle Ages up to the end of the 18th century. Highlights include paintings by Van Eyck, Durer, Cranach, Raphael, Titian and Rembrandt.

You can buy a day ticket costing 12 euro for this and all the other galleries and museums in and close to the Zwinger. Very good value considering the range and quality of the collections included in the price. Audio guides in English. Note that the modern art gallery (19/20th centuries) is closed for refurbishment until 2008.

Semperbau, Zwinger, Sophienstrasse. Trams 4, 8 or 9 to Theaterplatz. Closed Mondays. www.skd-dresden.de

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