In the centre of the Old town is a unique structure - the Zwinger. The construction of this Palace began in the early eighteenth century, when the elector Friedrich August I. In 1710 by the architect Peppelman built French pavilion, Bathing nymphs, Longitudinal galleries, etc. By the end of 1728 appear Bell, Porcelain and German pavilions. The Zwinger construction ended with the death of Friedrich August I (August the Strong) in 1733.

Soon the Zwinger building was used for other purposes, now it keeps the precious collection of the elector. The founder of the gallery is considered to be Friedrich August II, the son of August the Strong. On his orders, were purchased and shipped to Dresden a whole collection of paintings, including in 1754, a valuable work called “the Sistine Madonna” by Raphael.

The Zwinger is considered one of the most interesting and significant buildings constructed in the late Baroque style in Europe. In 1855 Gottfried Semper completed the construction of the Zwinger construction of the building of the picture gallery in the Italian Renaissance style. And today it is a veritable treasure trove, which holds a unique collection of world-famous art gallery Old Masters, Armoury, porcelain collection. There are also Zoological Museum and mathematical-physical salon.