SIGHTGEIST No. 9 (Auszug)

SIGHTGEIST THE SAXONY MAGAZINE NEW LIFE INSIDE OLD WALLS THE TRANSIENCE OF ART SHOOTING THE RAPIDS

NEWS

EVENTS

STORIES

No. 9

Visit Dresden

www.dresden.de/dresdenmagazine www.dresden.de/events

Celebrating together Whatever you have in mind and whatever sets your pulse racing, Dresden is your stage and arena. Brace yourself for some thrilling experiences.

Dresden Music Festival 05.05. – 05.06.2016 International DixieIand Festival 15.05. – 22.05.2016 CANALETTO – The Dresden City Festival 810 Years of Dresden 19.08. – 21.08.2016

Inara Jumabekova & Valtemir Lima dos Santos 1

Feel the spirit Once more, art and culture are the dominating themes in this new issue of SIGHTGEIST. That is hardly surprising, as Saxony is still Germany’s number one destination for cultural holidays.

Saxony is not only home to the oldest boys’ choir in the world, the Thomanerchor in Leipzig, but also to the Kreuzchor Dresden, another traditional boys’ choir that celebrates its 800th anniversary this year. Some of the talented voices in the choir go on to enjoy famous careers, such as René Pape: One of the best bass singers in the world who is at home on opera stages around the globe, he is also featured in this magazine.

But while Saxony is widely known for its outstanding composers, orchestras, solo artists and classical music festivals, not many people are aware that the bandoneon, a musical instrument that is indispensable to the great tango tradition in Argentina and Uruguay, originated in Chemnitz, Saxony.

Wood-carved figures and other miniatures are popular all over the world, particularly at Christmas time. This handicraft has been practised in the Ore Mountains for several centuries. Not quite that old but with a history dating back more than one hundred years, Wendt & Kühn is the most famous brand in this sector.

For those looking for culinary delights, we also have a story about Peter Maria Schnurr, Germany’s Chef of the Year 2016, whose Falco restaurant in Leipzig has been awarded two Michelin stars.

In this ninth edition of SIGHTGEIST, I am particularly delighted to present two outdoor highlights for those who enjoy more active holidays. Stoneman Miriquidi is a unique challenge in Germany. Introduced by mountain bike champion Roland Stauder from South Tyrol, it enables mountain bikers to prove their ability in different stages.

And Markkleeberg Canoe Park just outside Leipzig is a spectacular artificial white-water rafting park with excellent facilities for both top athletes in this sport and tourists. This goes to show that Saxony is not only the top destination for aficionados of art and culture, but also for those who want to enjoy an outdoor experience and feel the spirit of nature.

Enjoy the read!

Hans-Jürgen Goller Editorial Director SIGHTGEIST 3

14

Sax tracks

Contents 03

Editorial

06 Kaleidoscope News and events

14

Stoneman Miriquidi

Spirit of the mountains

28

The Fascination of Old Music

800 years of Dresden’s Kreuzchor

36

Königstein Fortress in Saxon Switzerland

Europe’s largest stronghold

46

Joie de Vivre on a Plate

Germany’s Chef of the Year comes from Leipzig

28 36

54

The Transience of Art

Impressions of a contemporary cultural festival

From Dresden into the world

62

Symbol of power

70

New Life inside Old Walls

Purschenstein Castle Hotel in the Ore Mountains I’m a Saxopolitan

Master of the unfathomable

78

Eleven Dots of Perfection

Tradition from the Ore Mountains

86

Fresh Hope from Dresden

Fighting cancer with protons and heavyweight technology 94 Shooting the Rapids

Markkleeberg Canoe Park south of Leipzig

100 The Bandoneon and Tango

A musical instrument from Saxony and its journey into the big, wide world

106

Cultural Highlights

Festival calendar 2016/2017

114

Imprint

46

86

The art of cooking

70 54

State-of-the-art treatment

A deep voice from Saxony

Creativity in abandoned buildings

“Feel the spirit�

94 78

62

A fairytale setting

A taste of adventure

Christmas angels

100

Music with passion

T

N O I T A N I C S A F E H

OF OLD

MUS

IC

Top left: Roderich Kreile is both manager and musical director of Dresden's Kreuzchor. He is responsible for studying the choir's repertoire together with the boys and conducting most of its performances.

A musical audience with the Pope in Rome, a concert attended

tears. Audiences give enthusiastic responses and standing ova-

by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, a tour of Asia complete

tions. “The children don’t put on airs, they are authentic”, says

with screaming teenage fans: Performances of this kind are virtu-

Roderich Kreile.

ally routine for Dresden’s Kreuzchor. The boys’ choir, which cel-

Audiences around the world marvel at the choir’s performances.

ebrates its 800th anniversary in 2016, always gives exceptional

Every year, it tours around the globe: In 2016, its travels will take

concerts whatever the musical genre, whether it is old hymns,

it to Austria, China, Japan and South Korea, among other coun-

modern compositions or folk music. This is because the ensem-

tries. But the boys are at home in Dresden’s Kreuzkirche, where

ble, whose members are all between the ages of 9 and 18, is a rare

the people of Dresden and their guests regularly come to enjoy

blend of world-class vocals, an extensive musical repertoire and a

the choir’s sensational performances.

history that is as old as the city of Dresden itself.

The choir has been established in the city since the early 13th

The choir’s distinctive sound with the soprano and contralto

century. Although it is not known exactly when it was founded,

voices being sung by the younger boys, and the tenor and bass by

it is assumed that a parish school already existed around 1216,

the young men, is the result of the boys’ extraordinary voices and

when the city was first mentioned in official records. The boys’

the wealth of music in Saxony: “We have something very pre-

school trained future clergy and was funded by the town. Its pu-

cious, brilliant creations, to which we are fully devoted. In these

pils were required to provide musical accompaniment for church

moments, something comes over us”, says Roderich Kreile, cantor

services in the Kreuzkirche next door. A schoolmaster was first

of the Kreuzchor for nearly 20 years. He oversees the boys’ musi-

mentioned in 1300, and there is also evidence that the master

cal education with determination and persistence, inspiring them

and his pupils sang.

to excellence. The 59-year-old repeatedly creates a unique atmos-

The Kreuzkirche, or “Church of the Cross”, situated on Altmarkt

phere at the choir’s concerts. “When the boys sing, the audience

square in Dresden city centre, is still the traditional venue for

experiences emotional moments, because of the music, but also

the Kreuzchor’s concerts. It was already a popular pilgrimage site

the singing.” The clarity and transient nature of a young boy’s

even before the town’s first historical mention. In 1234, Margrave

voice lends it a unique aura and special sound that is enchanting

Heinrich presented the church with its first relic: a sliver of Jesus’s

to hear. For example, when 12-year-old Lukas Neumann sang a

cross. A few years later, it also acquired a wooden crucifix, which

verse from the German folk song “Der Mond ist aufgegangen”

according to legend was washed up by the Elbe. Because both rel-

(The Moon Has Risen) at Dresden’s Semper Opera Ball in 2015,

ics were venerated, the church soon began holding daily vespers,

time seemed to stand still for a moment. The text, so simple yet

with the boys’ choir singing accompanying psalms and Marian

beautiful and full of wisdom, moved many of those present to

hymns, which have also been passed down.

SIGHTGEIST 31

This medieval tradition of performing liturgical music during ser-

reputation by touring the USA in the 1930s and organizing audio

vices and vespers in the Kreuzkirche is still an important part of

recordings – a first for a church choir. He also managed to lead

the choir’s activities today, and forms the basis of its artistic work.

the choir comparatively unscathed through the National Social-

The choir’s repertoire ranges from early Baroque music by com-

ist era by reinforcing its Christian character and refusing to be

posers like Heinrich Schütz, to pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach

influenced by the Nazis. Mauersberger flouted performance bans

and 19th century choral music by Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy

and included works by Jewish and ostracised composers such as

and Johannes Brahms, right up to contemporary music. Heinrich

Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy in the choir’s repertoire. But even

Schütz lived in Dresden in the mid-17th century and was court

he could not prevent eleven of his pupils from being killed in the

conductor at the present-day Dresden Cathedral. Bach was can-

bombing raid on Dresden in the night from 13-14 February 1945.

tor at St. Thomas’ Church in nearby Leipzig.

Large parts of the town were destroyed, and the Kreuzkirche was

Former Kreuzchor cantors also composed music for the choir and

also set on fire together with the choir’s entire archive. Mauers-

for the Kreuzkirche: Gottfried August Homilius, a student of Bach’s

berger’s hymn, “Wie liegt die Stadt so wüst” (“How desolate lies

and cantor of the Kreuzchor for three decades starting in 1755, left

the city), which laments this sorrow and pain, is performed by

an extensive and very popular oeuvre. Rudolf Mauersberger, the

the Kreuzchor every year on 13 February in the Kreuzkirche. Re-

choir’s cantor for 40 years in the 20th century, was another pro-

built and reconsecrated in 1955, the church’s interior, purposely

lific composer. Mauersberger also gave the choir its international

restored in a simple style, provides the perfect setting.

32 SIGHTGEIST

The church and its choir are a permanent fixture in the city to this

The choir shows its gratitude for this support in its own way, dem-

day. The weekly vespers and church services attract thousands of

onstrating time and again that it is willing to break with con-

worshippers every year. Performances of motets and oratorios are

vention and is much more than a traditional church choir. Its

regularly sold out. Dirk Hilbert, Dresden’s mayor, values not only the

performances at unusual venues, such as at the Semper Opera

choir’s international reputation, but also its strong presence in town.

Ball, Dresden’s football stadium or on trams, where it sings folk

“We are proud to have one of the most famous choirs in the world in

songs, reach out not only to dedicated fans of choral music, but to

our city.” Dresden is prepared to pay for this honour, contributing 2.5

anyone who is open to it.

million euros a year to its funding. Cantor Kreile is grateful for this

The 130 choirboys are still educated at the Kreuzschule, which

generosity: “I am delighted that the significance of our work for the

has since moved from next door to the Kreuzkirche to the Stries-

community is appreciated. If we manage to maintain a solid founda-

en neighbourhood of Dresden and is now a Protestant grammar

tion for our work after the anniversary, that would be fantastic.”

school that also accepts children outside the choir. Boys attend

Many of Dresden's residents approve of the city’s commitment

the school from grades 5 to 12, when they take their school-leav-

and love their Kreuzchor, regularly making sure they get tickets to

ing examination, and live in a boarding house called the “Alum-

the annual performance of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio or Brahm’s

nat”. Their schooling and housing are funded by the city.

“Ein deutsches Requiem”, attend vespers or visit the famous

Boys are selected and accepted based on their talent, regardless of

Christmas Mass.

their religious denomination. Many come from Saxony and have

SIGHTGEIST 33

an exceptional love of music. When they arrive, they first have to

each school year: “What we do, in terms of content, is the same

learn the rules, says Cantor Kreile: “The children come to us from

every year: A new school year starts, the Kreuzchor works hard to

completely different social, educational and family backgrounds.

quickly attain a high level, and maintain it throughout the year.”

Some have had a very liberal or anti-authoritarian upbringing,

The children like to sing the older pieces best. “When we tell

while others have learned more discipline. We try to reconcile

them we’re going to do Schütz, they all cheer. We try to give them

these differences by looking for similarities, such as the boys’

the best material we can.” It all goes towards shaping their taste in

enjoyment of music: They all love singing and want to be part

music. Despite their first-class musical education, Cantor Kreile

of our community. Some children are not accustomed to sitting

does not see his boys as elite singers trained for a specialist career.

still for 45 minutes at choir rehearsals without talking or running

“What the boys learn at our school and in the choir is a ‘studium

around. But that’s no longer a problem once we have got them to

universales’. The youngsters get a chance to develop their intel-

the stage where they start enjoying the music and see that their

lectual and musical abilities, are nurtured and challenged, and at

teachers care and are interested in them.”

the same time acquire high-level social skills through living in

If you go for a walk through the quiet streets of this neighbour-

the community. And once they have finished school and their

hood on a mild day, you can hear the boys through the open win-

active life as a choirboy is over, they can move on to completely

dows, practising Brahms’s “German Requiem”, Bach’s “Christmas

new spheres of society.”

Oratorio” or Mendelssohn, depending on the time of year. But

Roderich Kreile’s active life as a cantor will also be over in a

when the bell rings for the break, they are no different from any

few years. He celebrates his 60th birthday in 2016. The 28th

other schoolchildren: All they want to do after their singing

Kreuzchor Cantor aims to use his last five years in office to uphold

lessons is to get out and run around the playground. Kreuzchor

the choir’s high artistic standards, and make sure it continues to

Cantor Roderich Kreile describes his work at the beginning of

be a place that attracts talented boys.

TRAVELINFO HOW TO GET THERE By air: Dresden airport Daily nonstop flights from Amsterdam (new), Moscow and Zurich, several nonstop flights from Barcelona, as well as a wide choice of international flights via Frankfurt, Cologne, Düsseldorf and Munich By rail: direct ICE connections to Dresden from almost all German cities; CityNightLine from Zurich and Prague By car and coach: via motorways A4, A13 and A14

Hotel INNSIDE Dresden This hotel is also in the city centre, across from the Albertinum, an art museum housing the sculpture collection and the New Masters Gallery of the Dresden State Art Collections. The hotel offers individual service, an exclusive, elegant and extremely comfortable ambience as well as several restaurants. For a special experience, enjoy the unique views from the Twist Sky Bar on the 6th floor, which looks directly onto the cupola of the Frauenkirche. www.melia.com

WHERE TO STAY NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt This hotel is on Dresden’s oldest square, directly opposite the Kreuzkirche at the heart of the city. Its central position means that all the city’s cultural attractions such as the Frauenkirche, the Royal Palace, Brühl’s Terrace, Zwinger Palace and the Semper Opera are within walking distance. At Christmas, Dresden’s famous Striezelmarkt is held right outside the hotel’s door. www.nh-collection.com

Hotel Swissotel Dresden Behind the historic facade of this hotel set in the old part of town, guests will find a stylish and modern interior design combined with typical Swiss hospitality. They can enjoy maximum comfort in the hotel's elegant rooms and suites and exclusive service. The hotel’s “Wohnstube” restaurant serves authentic Swiss cuisine with a Saxon emphasis and charm. The spa is set in the historic vaulted basement that dates back to the 15th century. www.swissotel.de

34 SIGHTGEIST

Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden Set in historic walls, this three-star hotel on Altmarkt square boasts state-of-the-art interior design at the heart of Dresden. Easy to reach, it is an ideal starting point for an unforgettable stay in the city. The hotel’s Wiener Kaffeehaus Altmarkt offers authentic Austrian coffeehouse culture. www.starinnhotels.com WHERE TO EAT Weisse Gasse foodmile Weisse Gasse is a pedestrian zone that starts at the Kreuzkirche with countless trendy bars and bistros. This is where locals meet to enjoy international cuisine from all continents or simply to chat and watch the world go by over a coffee or a cocktail. www.weisse-gasse.de (in German only)

Kreuzkirche on Altmarkt square is home to Dresden's Kreuzchor, which holds regular concerts here.

Kรถnigstein Fortress perched high above the Elbe Valley on a plateau of the same name.

Kรถnigstein Fortress in Saxon Swit zerland

Wisps of fog obstruct the views in the valleys of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains in the early morning. In the background, the rocky plateau of Lilienstein Mountain can be seen.

Königstein Fortress, one of the largest fortifications in Europe, stands

high atop a sandstone plateau overlooking the River Elbe. A new permanent exhibition, “In lapide regis – On the King’s Stone”, that opened to the public in May 2015 now gives visitors the opportunity to explore the fortress’s 800-year history. Exhibits, installations and media stations offer a fascinating insight into the stronghold’s past, and a stroll through the grounds is also an enlightening experience.

A day at Königstein Fortress is a great way to enjoy the scenic views and take a step back in time. Visitors can reach the castle by car or bus. After a steep climb, they are rewarded with unforgettable views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. A 1.7-kilometer trail leads around the battlements of the “King’s Stone”, as it was referred to when first mentioned in official records in 1241. Those disinclined to make the strenuous climb can arrive by train and take the lift up to the top of the plateau. The fortress itself is a unique ensemble of 50 buildings from several eras: Romanesque, late Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and 19th century.

This mosaic of buildings bears witness to a long and eventful history dating back to the Middle Ages. The imposing, flat-topped mountain on which it stands originally belonged to the kings of Bohemia. A castle stood here in those days, which passed into the ownership of the Saxon Wettin dynasty in around 1406/08 and was only expanded into a regional stronghold in the early modern period after 1589. In the following centuries, the fortress served various purposes, as a military stronghold, a hunting lodge for the royal court, a state prison, an art archive and treasury, a prisonerof-war camp and a juvenile detention centre. Königstein Fortress was opened to the public as a museum in 1955.

40 SIGHTGEIST

Friedrichsburg Castle, a Baroque pleasure palace on the fortress's battlements, was built in 1589 as an look-out and a flanking tower. The ground floor originally housed the cannons, while the upper floor was used for banquets. In 1731 it was converted into a Baroque pavilion. Today it is a popular place for weddings.

AN INTERNATIONAL ATTRACTION On entering the western wing of the edifice, it is hard to im-

agine how such a long and eventful history can be portrayed in one exhibition. “Previously, we were only able to show certain aspects of different eras in individual buildings of the complex. This new permanent exhibition on the fortress’s history gives visitors a bigger picture”, says Dr Angelika Taube, general manager of the museum. More than 500 exhibits and full-scale models, three-dimensional dioramas and true-to-life figures are presented in 33 rooms, some of which have never been open to the public before. “We wanted to create a place where people of all nationalities can learn about and experience Köngistein’s history”, Dr Taube continues. All information is in three languages, German, English and Czech, and the

View of the exhibition "In lapide regis"

audio guide is available in nine languages, including Polish.

“That is important because many Poles come to visit Dresden, the Elbe Valley and the fortress every year. The castle played an important part in the reign of Augustus the Strong, who was both Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. Poland, Bohemia

PART OF OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE

and Saxony have a long, interwoven history in Europe, and that is reflected in the exhibition.”

The history of fortresses in Europe, according to Dr Ange-

lika Taube, has always been somewhat overshadowed by more traditional castles and palaces. The international FORTE HISTORY GOES INTERACTIVE

CULTURA project was therefore set up to cultivate and promote the heritage of European fortifications. Königstein For-

The audio guide tour takes about an hour and a half. A large

tress is home to one of – if not the – oldest barracks in Europe,

model of the fortress displayed at the start of the exhibition

the basic structure of which dates back to the 16th century.

helps visitors to get their bearings. The tour begins with an

Other fortifications have been converted or built over through

introductory film on the history of the castle and the geological

the centuries, while some have disappeared completely. In

evolution of the sandstone plateau. It also shows a reconstruc-

eastern Saxony, an entire chain of imposing fortresses is strung

tion of the historical stages involved in building the individual

along the River Elbe, in Torgau, Stolpen, Dresden, Pirna and

rooms, which were uncovered during renovation work.

Königstein, all in close proximity to one another.

Some 30 media stations provide supplementary information.

For example, a virtual, intuitive touchscreen display show-

HIGHLIGHTS AND LOWLIGHTS

ing the history of the building’s construction reveals how the complex evolved through the centuries, both the fortress as

The fortress boasts many other remarkable historic artefacts,

a whole and the details of the individual buildings. A finely-

such as the deepest well in Saxony with a depth of 152.5 metres,

crafted model illustrates the construction of the fortress in

or a reconstruction of the apartments of the fortress commander.

the 16th century, with miniatures of all the tradesmen who

One highlight of the exhibition is undoubtedly the King’s Cham-

participated in the building work and their tools, including

bers, with their portraits of the electors of Saxony and the fortress

stonecutters, masons, cranes, bearers and horse-drawn wagons.

commanders. Equally impressive are the opulent 17th century

Visitors can watch them at work and hear the sound of voices,

murals showing two Swiss guards watching over the entrance,

hammering and the metallic clang of hammers and chisels on

which were discovered by chance and have since been restored.

stone. Historic objects, hands-on activities and folklore are

In wartime, Saxony’s state treasures and art collections were

presented in clever and diverse ways using a variety of media

stored in Königstein Fortress. Fortunately for the Saxons, König-

to create an impressive and tangible experience.

stein was never taken. Another high point of the exhibition is a

SIGHTGEIST 43

historic, 1:15-scale replica of the coach procession of Augustus

During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71 and the First and

the Strong, showing the elector travelling with his entourage

Second World Wars, prisoners were detained at the fortress, as

to the fortress from Dresden. All the figures were handmade by

revealed by impressive photographic documentation and even

two artists in England. In the same room, visitors can also admire

film material. At the end of the tour, the exhibition also addresses

interior decorations from the days of the Saxon court, such as

a darker chapter of Königstein Fortress: After the Second World

Meissen porcelain.

War and during the first years of the East German regime, the fortress was used as a youth reform camp, a prison-like detention

As a military complex, a state archive and a state prison, the for-

centre for young people who were convicted of crimes or suspect-

tress was naturally always sworn to secrecy. For this reason, only

ed of causing political unrest.

few historical illustrations exist, and the site was off-limits to ordinary citizens. Tourism did not develop in and around König-

Because few visitors can absorb so much history in one day, a

stein until the 18th century, when people started coming from

catalogue with more in-depth information is available to ac-

Dresden to explore the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the sur-

company the exhibition. Visitors can take a break from their

rounding countryside. Sightseeing evolved from a leisure activity

tour through Königstein Fortress and find refreshment in the

for a few city dwellers into a veritable fashion in the 19th century,

Officers’ Casino, the restaurant “In den Kasematten”, the his-

when the railways were constructed and passenger boats began

toric pub “Zum Musketier”, the beer garden and the fortress

navigating the River Elbe. Saxon Switzerland, with its sandstone

bakery. Finally, every year in early summer, a historical specta-

rock formations and the river running though it, became a sum-

cle with more than 300 actors takes visitors back in time to

mer health resort, and people became increasingly interested in

1639, when Swedish troops conquered Königstein Fortress on

the fortress, even though they still could not visit it.

their way to Bohemia.

44 SIGHTGEIST

TRAVELINFO HOW TO GET THERE By air: Dresden Airport By car and coach: via motorways A4 and A17 WHERE TO STAY AND EAT Hotel Elbresidenz in Bad Schandau From June 2016, the newly opened Viva Vital spa in the 5-star Elbresidenz Hotel in Bad Schandau welcomes guests with unique Ayurveda treatments in one of the most beautiful hotels in Saxon Switzerland, directly on the shores of the River Elbe. In the hotel’s gourmet restaurant “Sendig”, top chef André Tienelt serves culinary delights with a regional touch. www.elbresidenz-bad-schandau.de

Bastei mountain hotel The four-star Bastei mountain hotel is situated on a sandstone plateau high above the River Elbe. The Bastei looks back on 200 years of culinary history and served guests before the word “tourism” even existed. Today, the hotel features a panorama restaurant, the Basteiklause (a former hermitage), a hotel bar and restaurant with an open fireplace, outdoor cafés and beer gardens. www.bastei-berghotel.de Restaurant “In den Kasematten” The themed restaurant "In den Kasematten" (In the Casemates) is located in the extensive underground vaults of Königstein Fortress. In former times, it served as soldiers’ quarters, a notorious state prison, a gunpowder magazine and a state treasury. Guests are taken on an entertaining culinary journey through four centuries of the fortress’s history. www.kasematten.de (in German only)

GOOD TO KNOW Saxon Switzerland national park Königstein Fortress, one of the largest mountain strongholds in Europe, is situated at the heart of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

Prominent plateaus stand out in a unique rocky landscape with narrow gorges and idyllic forests, while the River Elbe meanders through the valley. Some 100 million years ago, this wonderful landscape at the heart of central Europe was at the bottom of the sea. The Saxon Switzerland national park is part of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and is under state protection to preserve this natural monument for future generations. The national park is also a popular recreational area with an extensive network of hiking and cycling paths and climbing routes. www.nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de

SIGHTGEIST 45

Joie de Vivre

e t a l P a on a Germ

ny's

he of t f e Ch

r Ye a

co

s me

fr

om

L

eip

zig

“The ambience, the views, the team, the cuisine”, says the passionate perfectionist, “are all the result of uncompromising effort, precision and quality. I want 100 percent from every single person – or nothing at all.”

48 SIGHTGEIST

His culinary philosophy is all about unpretentious, competent cuisine with a modern interpretation.

Leipzig is hip. For some years now, it has attracted a growing

Today he still loves to provoke, do things his own way and cross

number of young professionals and creative minds. One of them

traditional boundaries in creating his dishes. His culinary philos-

is Peter Maria Schnurr, Germany’s Chef of the Year 2016.

ophy is “cuisine passion légère©” – passionate, light cooking – a creative, French-inspired cuisine with a modern interpretation. He

Peter Maria Schnurr moved to Leipzig from Berlin before the

combines fish and meat with vegetables to create different textures.

hype began. He opened his restaurant FALCO in 2005, high

For example, his 7-course “Passion” menu features tilapia with pars-

above the city on the 27th floor of The Westin Leipzig hotel.

ley root, pear, Lardo di Colonnata and sweetbread roasted in nut

In retrospect it was the right decision, he says cheerfully, con-

butter, with chestnuts, Perigord truffles, Jerusalem artichokes and

sidering he is now the only top chef with two Michelin stars in

Campari orange, or short rib with date chutney and lime chicory.

former East Germany: “The timing was perfect. From the very

No bread, no pasta, no risotto. Everything is “unique”, as Schnurr

start, I was looking for something different, a niche to fill. Leip-

puts it. “We have moved on from conventional cuisine, combin-

zig offered everything I needed, as well as a lot of freedom.”

ing components that are unexpected”, he says. His guests love it:

Above all, it gave him space to dream up his unusual ideas.

“People who come here for the first time are bowled over – by the

Known for his banter and unconventional style of dress (he

food, the way it is presented, the ambience.”

likes to wear red tracksuit trousers and trainers), Peter Maria Schnurr loves a challenge. “Extremes appeal to me. I only ever

The critics are captivated too. The “Gault Millau” restaurant

wanted the very best.”

guide just named Schnurr “Chef of the Year 2016”, describing the 46-year-old restaurateur as a “tempestuous chef with a bold style

Originally from Forbach in the Black Forest region of South

that is very much his own. His complex dishes are packed with

Germany, Schnurr graduated from vocational school when he

expressive flavours and astounding combinations of products

was 16 years old. His father, a banker, wanted his son to follow

that always unfold perfectly on the palate,” and awarding him 19

in his footsteps. But Peter had other ideas, and yearned to do

out of 20 possible points. Named after its founders, the “Gault-

something creative. At 20, he trained as a chef and fell in love

Millau” is the most influential restaurant guide of French origin

with the trade. After working in various restaurants to round out

besides the “Michelin Guide”. It grants Gault Millau points, the

his skills and gain experience, he moved to Berlin in the mid-

most coveted accolade in haute cuisine after Michelin’s stars.

1990s, where he worked with leading chef Siegfried Rockendorf, who made him chef de cuisine at the tender age of 25. “I had

The award is a great distinction for Schnurr and an endorsement

blue hair and an earring; I loved to provoke and aggravate. But

he is happy to pass on to his 22-strong team at FALCO. He has

it also meant I had to be twice as good as anyone else – and that

even renamed the title “We are Chef of the Year”. He would nev-

encouraged me even more.”

er have achieved such success without his employees, on whom

SIGHTGEIST 49

he relies fully and for whom he has nothing but praise, particularly maître d’ Oliver Kraft and sommelier Christian Wilhelm.

It is important that the chemistry in the team is just right, says Schnurr. “We laugh a lot together, the atmosphere is informal.”

And yet he expects a lot: Discipline, reliability and hard work are values close to his heart: “I want 100 percent effort, precision and quality. I don’t make compromises.” His crew also has to put up with one more thing: his taste in music. He plays techno at full blast in the kitchen right up until the guests arrive.

Schnurr is grateful for the recognition his work has received.

FALCO’s tenth anniversary in 2015 was its most successful year in terms of customer volume. They come to enjoy not only the exceptional food, but also the restaurant’s special ambience. Arriving in the bar and lounge after taking the lift from the hotel foyer, the first thing that catches the eye is a long, elegant wooden table – THE! table – with stylish designer chairs in front of a huge panorama window. Its occupants have the entire trade fair city at their feet and can enjoy superb views of the town and its attractions stretching as far as the surrounding countryside. At night, it is a sparkling sea of lights. Customers can either reserve the whole table or sit with others in a relaxed atmosphere.

The concept of THE! table was another stroke of genius on the part of Peter Maria Schnurr, and is highly unconventional for a gourmet restaurant: “Our guests get into conversation, talk about the great views, the food or whatever. It works very well.” The actual restaurant is behind the bar and lounge. Each of the ten round, matt-white Italian designer tables with comfortable, cream-coloured armchairs seats up to four diners. The space between tables is sufficient to ensure that guests don’t have to listen to the conversation at neighbouring tables. A red-and-white carpet absorbs additional sound. There are no tablecloths, but polished silver cutlery, high-quality porcelain and elegant linen napkins. The concept works. “The people of Leipzig are very proud of our restaurant, which we appreciate. We owe it to our guests that despite the difficult economy, we were able to establish a niche product like this”, says Schnurr. It is something he could not have foreseen when he started out in 2005, but Leipzig has taken off in the last ten years.

Companies like Porsche, BMW and DHL have built large facilities here, and the people of Leipzig are doing well. That generates demand and guests are prepared to pay for good food, according to the award-winning chef. But he doesn’t have a recipe for success. His ambition is to offer his guests the best quality. “We have something for everybody, whether they order a menu for 88 euros or one for much more. Each guest gets the same warm welcome.” The best compliment given to him recently by a guest was: “FALCO could be anywhere in the world – in New York, London or Tokyo.”

50 SIGHTGEIST

Although travelling around the world is something Peter Maria

“fine cuisine must be healthy. Around 60 percent of our products

Schnurr loves, he has remained true to Leipzig. He has settled

come from rivers, lakes and oceans. They are light and healthy.”

here, started a family and is father to a 9-year-old daughter, to

Schnurr prefers to cook seafood, especially fish and shellfish,

whom he has dedicated a dish: “Annika Maria 2006,” made with

because they can be prepared in so many creative ways. Algae

Lardo di Colonnata (a white pork fat), langoustine marinated

are also an interesting medium and feature in his desserts. But

in lime and olive oil, crème fraîche and caviar. It is an unpre-

whatever he serves, “the main thing is top quality ingredients”,

tentious, elegant and luxurious dish, and a fixture on FALCO’s

says the 46-year-old.

menu, which otherwise changes regularly.

Despite managing FALCO for ten years, Peter Maria Schnurr Before he creates a new dish, Schnurr thinks up all kinds of

does not intend to rest on his laurels. “I have a greater re-

outlandish ideas, which he writes down and then tries out and

sponsibility now than ever before and am always honing the

improves step by step together with his team. Exciting combi-

concept.” And that also means thinking outside the box: “I

nations of tastes and contradictory flavours are important. An

am interested in what happens outside the kitchen, for exam-

attractive presentation and colours also play a role. After that,

ple whether our guests feel comfortable. I want to get people

he looks for a suitable name. It might be inspired by a beautiful

excited about haute cuisine.” Schnurr has plenty of ideas for

colour, like his dessert ‘pure jaune’ (pure yellow), comprising yel-

the future: When he won his second Michelin star in 2008, he

low lentils combined with mango, sweetcorn and saffron. “I was

called it “European league”. Three stars would put him in the

in Paris and saw a window display by Louis Vuitton that was all

“international league”. Having won the accolade “Chef of the

in yellow.” Or his dish ‘Summer. Summer. Summer!’, a brightly

Year 2016”, he and his team are heading in the right direction.

coloured, stylish mix of vegetables that looks almost too good to

It is not an easy road, but it is not unachievable, says the master

eat. Another important criterion in creating new dishes is that

chef with confidence.

TRAVELINFO HOW TO GET THERE By air: Leipzig-Halle Airport Daily nonstop flights from Istanbul, Vienna and Zurich, several nonstop flights from London Stansted and Barcelona, as well as a wide choice of international connection flights via Frankfurt, Cologne, Dusseldorf and Munich By rail: direct ICE connections from almost all German cities By car and coach: via motorways A9, A14

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT The Westin Leipzig The interiors of the Westin Leipzig blend local history with modern European design. The rooms offer fascinating views of Leipzig’s city centre. www.westin-leipzig.de Radisson Blu Hotel This hotel situated directly opposite the famous Gewandhaus concert hall and the opera house boasts some of the most modern and elegant rooms and suites in Leipzig, all furnished with exquisite materials, such as Macassa ebony, glass and leather. www.radisson-leipzig.com

Hotel Fürstenhof Leipzig Set at the heart of this fascinating city of art and culture, the 5-star superior Hotel Fürstenhof Leipzig welcomes guests in a historic 18th century building. The hotel is situated in the city centre, just five minutes’ walk from the Central Station, and offers the highest standards in terms of comfort. www.hotelfuerstenhofleipzig.com Restaurant Falco Designer ambience and gourmet cuisine on the 24th floor of the Westin Leipzig hotel. Falco is the only restaurant in the new German federal states to be granted two stars in the Michelin Guide. www.falco-leipzig.de

SIGHTGEIST 53

Cultural Highlights 2016/17 Saxony is Germany’s no. 1 cultural destination.

The margraves, dukes, electors and kings of the Wettin dynasty who ruled Saxony for 835 years promoted the arts and music, built impressive palaces and even complete cities, and inspired in their people the joie de vivre visitors can still witness today. Saxony’s capital, Dresden, has risen again in all its Baroque splendour, its incredible art collections shining like the jewels in a crown. A journey through the musical history of Saxony is an encounter with great names and a rich musical legacy. It is possible to walk in the footsteps of famous musical instrument manufacturers, composers and musicians, not only in Leipzig, Saxony’s largest city, that has contributed to music history like no other place in Germany. Smaller romantic towns also impress with their historic architecture from Gothic to Art Nouveau, and with unexpected cultural highlights. By creating innovative art and music and presenting it in established or new locations, contemporary artists and musicians are busy building a tradition for the future.

SIGHTGEIST 107

until 11 December 2016 24th Festival of Sandstone and Music This music festival is a harmonious blend of culture, music and breathtaking nature. The concerts are held at various venues in Saxon Switzerland – in churches, castles, palaces and quarries. www.sandstein-musik.de (in German only) until 18 December 2016 800 Years of Dresden’s Kreuzchor Concerts and events in the anniversary year www.kreuzchor.com (in German only) until 8 January 2017 You are Art Exhibition with fascinating interactive illusions from China with 3D motifs in XXL format www.die-sehenswerten-drei.de

2 – 8 May International Instrumental Competition The competition welcomes applications in the categories horn and tuba. It takes place in Markneukirchen (Vogtland) and is open to the public. www.instrumental-competition.de 5 and 6 May Altzella Blues and Rock Festival The most relaxing and authentic blues festival in Germany is held in Altzella monastery. www.kloster-altzella.de 5 – 8 May Medieval Castle Festival An exhilarating festival celebrates the late Middle Ages at Kriebstein Castle. www.burg-kriebstein.eu 5 May – 5 June Dresden Music Festival The fascinating relationship between time and music in a varied programme with inspiring musical moments. www.musikfestspiele.com

May 2016 1 May Fleet Parade of the Saxon Steamship Company Traditional paddle steamer rally in Dresden www.saechsische-dampfschiffahrt.de 1 May – 3 October Summer in Electoral Saxony Saxonian|Bohemian cultural festival with around 200 outstanding cultural events of various genres. www.chursaechsische.de 1 May – 31 October Treasures of a Princely Marriage Special exhibition by the Dresden State Art Collections in Hartenfels Castle in Torgau www.skd.museum 1 May – 1 November The Maharajah’s Gardener.

A Saxon enchants India Special exhibition in Pillnitz Castle & Park near Dresden www.schlosspillnitz.de 1 May – 1 November Self-Propelled – or How the Bicycle Moves us Special exhibition by the Dresden State Art Collections in the Riverside Palace at Pillnitz Castle www.skd.museum

8 May – 11 September Felsenbühne Rathen Seasonal concerts, musicals and theatre performances on this open-air stage set among rocks in Saxon Switzerland national park. www.felsenbuehne-rathen.de 11 – 20 May Max Reger Festival Different events dedicated to the musician Max Reger, his life and work. www.reger-in-leipzig.de 13 – 16 May Wave Gothic Festival This festival in Leipzig is one of the biggest events in the neo-romantic black metal scene. www.wave-gothic-treffen.de 13 – 29 May Mozart in Saxony The Saxon Mozart Festival is an annual musical event in central Germany. www.mozart-sachen.de (in German only) 15 – 22 May International Dixieland Festival Every year in May, more than 500,000 Dixieland fans turn Dresden into the European capital of Dixieland at the longest-running old-time jazz festival in Europe. www.dixielandfestival-dresden.com 20 – 22 May Richard Wagner Festival Leipzig Opera honours the Leipzig-born composer with various performances. www.oper-leipzig.de

20 – 29 May A Capella Festival More than a week of musical treats by extraordinary vocal ensembles from all over the world. www.a-capella-festival.de 20 – 29 May Wagneriade Concerts, films, readings and more on the occasion of Richard Wagner’s birthday www.wagnerstaetten.de (in German only) 25 – 29 May 100th German Catholics’ Day More than 1,000 events in Leipzig for Christians and non-believers www.katholikentag.de 28 and 29 May The Swedes conquer Königstein Fortress Reenactment with historic uniforms set during the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) www.festung-koenigstein.de

June 2016 3 – 5 June 2nd German Protestant Trombone Festival More than 15,000 brass musicians from all over Germany meet in Dresden. www.dept2016.de (in German only) 3 – 5 June Leipzig City Festival Musical and culinary highlights attract more than 250,000 visitors every year. www.leipzig.travel 4 and 5 June Experience mining culture in the Ore Mountains A wide range of events in mines, mining museums and mining landscapes. www.erzgebirge-tourismus.de 9 – 19 June International Robert Schumann Contest Singers and pianists perform in Zwickau. www.schumannzwickau.de 10 – 12 June Plauen Lace Festival The town of Plauen in the heart of the Vogtland region is famous for its lace – delicate embroidery that attests to outstanding craftsmanship. www.plauen.de

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10 – 19 June Bach Festival Leipzig The 2016 Bach Festival is dedicated to “Secrets of Harmony” with various performances. www.bach-leipzig.de 11 and 12 June Open House in Radebeul’s Vineyards Winegrowers open their steep vineyards to fans of this cultural landscape and especially lovers of Saxon wine. www.radebeuler-winzer.de (in German only) 17 – 19 June Bunte Republik Neustadt Street festival in Dresden’s alternative neighbourhood www.brn-dresden.de (in German only) 17 – 26 June Meissen New Castle Festival Music and theatre performances set in the impressive courtyard of Albrechtsburg Castle in Meissen. www.neue-burgfestspiele-meissen.de (in German only) 19 – 26 June Torgau Festival of Protestant Church Music This festival week features various original performances. First-rate international artists play church music from the Reformation to the present day. www.tic-torgau.de 23 – 26 June Freiberg Town Festival Central Saxony’s largest public festival with a traditional miners’ parade. www.freiberg-service.de 24 – 26 June International Shostakovich Festival This festival honours the Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich, who stayed in the idyllic spa town of Gohrisch in Saxon Switzerland in 1960 and 1972. www.schostakowitsch-tage.de (in German only) 25 June – 26 August MDR Summer Music Festival For nine weeks, this festival of classical music in and for the whole of Central Germany celebrates its 25th anniversary. www.mdr.de/musiksommer (in German only)

110 SIGHTGEIST

30 June – 4 July RoboCup 2016 RoboCup is the most prominent and largest competition for intelligent robots, and one of the world’s key technology events for research and training. www.robocup2016.org

August 2016

30 June – 24 August Film Nights on the Banks of the Elbe Dresden presents two months of open-air cinema as well as rock and pop concerts directly on the River Elbe facing the impressive skyline of the Terrassenufer with its historic buildings. www.filmnaechte-am-elbufer.de (in German only)

6 and 7 August Transnaturale Contemporary light and sound art at Lake Bärwalder. www.baerwalder-see.eu

July 2016 1 July – 25 September OSTRALE`O16 One of Europe’s largest international exhibitions of contemporary art, and the third-biggest of its kind in Germany www.ostrale.de 2 and 3 July Ore Mountains Railway and Vintage Car Festival Visitors are invited to take a ride and watch. www.erzgebirge-tourismus.de 7 – 9 July International Street Theatre Festival ViaThea This festival has transformed the European town of Görlitz/Zgorzelec into a city of art since 1995. www.viathea.de 15 – 31 July Lusatian Summer Music Festival Experience special sounds at various venues in Upper Lusatia www.lausitzer-musiksommer.de (in German only) 16 July Dresden Castle Nights Castle parks and estates along the River Elbe merge for one night into a single open-air cultural venue. www.dresdner-schloessernacht.de (in German only) 16 and 17 July Narrow-Gauge Railway Festival with the Weisseritz Valley Railway The festival takes place along the narrowgauge railway between Freital-Hainsberg and Dippoldiswalde near Dresden. www.steam-route-saxony.com

5 – 7 August Festival Historik Mobil Historic vehicles from bygone days www.steam-route-saxony.com

6 – 21 August Moritzburg Festival Every year, around 25 renowned soloists and talented young musicians meet in Moritzburg and Proschwitz to work together on new interpretations of chamber music and musical rarities. www.moritzburgfestival.de 19 – 21 August International Jazz Festival Jazzy feelings in Bad Elster in the Vogtland region www.chursaechsische.de 19 – 21 August Canaletto. Dresden City Festival More than 550,000 visitors come to celebrate “Dresden – Cosmopolitan City of Celebrations”. www.dresdner-stadtfest.com 20 and 21 August Castle and Palace Tour Vintage cars tour through the Ore Mountains www.die-sehenswerten-drei.de 26 – 28 August Leipzig Water Festival Events held in, on and around the rivers, lakes and canals in Leipzig’s town centre and surroundings. www.wasserfest-leipzig.de (in German only) 27 and 28 August Open House in Saxony’s Winegrowing Estates More than 30 wineries in and around Dresden open their doors to visitors. www.elbland.de 27 and 28 August International Linen Festival Baroque Rammenau Castle welcomes lovers of fine linen and traditional crafts. www.barockschloss-rammenau.com

September 2016 2 September 7th Leipzig Arcade Festival Every year on the first Friday in September, visitors throng to the many shopping arcades and courtyards in the city of Leipzig to experience street art, concerts, theatre, exhibitions and much more. www.passagenfest-leipzig.com (in German only) 4, 10 and 18 September Stallion Parades in Moritzburg The most beautiful horses of Saxony’s State Stud can be seen in Moritzburg. www.saechsische-gestuetsverwaltung.de 9 – 18 September Ore Mountains Music Festival Building a bridge between traditional music from the Ore Mountains and fascinating interpretations by international artists www.musikfest-erzgebirge.de (in German only)

112 SIGHTGEIST

10 – 18 September Schumann Festival Week Leipzig’s most significant chamber music festival presents the life and work of the artists Clara Wieck and Robert Schumann. www.schumann-verein.de 15 – 25 September Mendelssohn Festival Every year, the Gewandhaus concert hall in Leipzig together with its many partners presents a musical festival to celebrate the life and work of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. www.gewandhaus.de (in German only) 16 – 18 September European Brass Music Festival Orchestras from all over Germany and abroad perform the full repertoire of brass music from swing and folk to classical music. www.bergmannsblasorchester.de 17 and 18 September Narrow-Gauge Festival in Lössnitzgrund Through Saxony’s Elbland region in historic trains. www.steam-route-saxony.com

23 – 25 September Industrial Culture Days This festival is dedicated to industrial development in Chemnitz and the surrounding region. www.cwe-chemnitz.de 24 September – 6 November Lusatian Fish Weeks Fish farms and inns invite guests to discover culinary delights. www.oberlausitz.com/geniessen 30 September – 2 October International Bandoneon Festival Listen to bandoneons in a traditional venue www.carlsfeld.com

October 2016 1 October – 15 January 2017 Paradise on Earth Landscape paintings from Brueghel to Rubens in Dresden’s Kunsthalle im Lipsiusbau www.skd.museum

7 – 16 October Heinrich Schütz Music Festival Festival of Baroque music in Dresden www.schuetz-musikfest.de (in German only) 9 October Leipzig Festival of Lights Artistic light installations at historic venues in the town centre explore the topics of freedom, democracy and revolution. www.leipziger-freiheit.de 21 – 23 October Designer´s Open This design festival at Leipzig’s Neue Messe is a marketplace for fresh ideas. www.designersopen.de 21 – 23 October Grassimesse International sales trade fair for applied art and design in the Grassi Museum of Applied Arts. www.grassimuseum.de

November 2016 8 – 13 November Euro-Scene Leipzig This festival of contemporary European theatre presents experimental theatre and innovative dance performances. www.euro-scene.de 12 November – 26 February 2017 Three Wishes for Cinderella Winter exhibition based on the classic German-Czech film from 1973. www.schloss-moritzburg.de 22 November – 23 December Leipzig Christmas Market This traditional Christmas market dates back to 1458. www.leipzig.de 25 November – 23 December Chemnitz Christmas Market This Christmas market has been ranked one of Saxony’s most beautiful by visitors for years. www.chemnitz.de

25 November – 24 December 582nd Striezelmarkt One of the oldest German Christmas markets as well as ten others throughout Dresden welcome guests. www.dresden.de/striezelmarkt

PREVIEW 2017 27 January Semper Opera Ball & Semper Open-air Ball www.semperopernball.de 23 – 26 March Leipzig Book Fair www.leipziger-buchmesse.de 5 – 21 May Mozart in Saxony www.mozart-sachen.de (in German only) 21 – 30 May A Capella Festival www.a-capella-festival.de Subject to change.

SIGHTGEIST 113

IMPRINT SIGHTGEIST is a publication of Labhard Medien GmbH Max-Stromeyer-Straße 116 78467 Konstanz, Germany Thomas Willauer, Gabriele Schindler Managing Directors Phone +49 7531 90710 Fax +49 7531 907131 verlag@labhard.de www.labhard.de HRB 380898 Freiburg Copyright: Labhard Medien GmbH Labhard Medien GmbH Branch Office Saxony Saalhausener Straße 51 b 01159 Dresden, Germany Iris Kupferschmied Publishing Manager Saxony Phone +49 351 7958830 Fax +49 351 79588315 sachsen@labhard.de www.labhard.de In cooperation with Tourism Marketing Company of Saxony Bautzner Straße 45–47 01099 Dresden, Germany Phone +49 351 491700 Fax +49 351 4969306 info@sachsen-tour.de www.visitsaxony.com www.saxonytourism.com Editorial Director Hans-Jürgen Goller Editorial Team Thomas Willauer (responsible in accordance with German press law), Wolfgang Gärtner Product Manager Iris Kupferschmied Translations Claire Gordon-Kühl

114 SIGHTGEIST

Layout Z&Z Werbeagentur Dresden Printed by Brühlsche Universitätsdruckerei Gießen, Germany Authors and Photos Cover picture © Königstein Fortress/Bernd Walther Kaleidoscope Author: Ines Nebelung Photos: © Dresden State Art Collections/Hans Christian Krass (p. 6), gown belonging to Electress Magdalena Sibylla of Saxony, ca.

1610-1620, Armoury, Dresden State Art Collections, inv. no. i. 45, with the permission of Dresden State Art Collections /Jürgen Lösel (p. 7 top); Schlösserland Sachsen/Moritzburg Castle & Little Pheasant Castle, Tomic Zeljko (p. 7 bottom); Staatsoperette Dresden/Renderwerke GbR (p. 8 top); Euro Fashion Award (p. 8 bottom); Hotel Elbresidenz an der Therme Bad Schandau/Thomas Kunack (p. 9 bottom); Leipzig Tourismus und Marketing/Andreas Schmidt (p. 10 top); Saxon State Spas/ Pastierovic (p. 11 top); Saxon Mozart Festival/Wolfgang Schmidt (p. 12 top); portrait of Krumbiegel 1893, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew www.kew.org KGU 192190 (p. 12 bottom) Stoneman Miriquidi www.stoneman-miriquidi.com Author: decorum Kommunikation/ Carsten Schulz-Nötzold; Photos: © Ore Mountains Tourist Association (p. 14, 18, 22, 23), Ore Mountains Tourist Association /studio2media (p. 16, 26), Tourism Marketing Company of Saxony (p. 20 (Paul Masukowitz), p. 24 (David Schunack), p. 27)

The Fascination of Old Music www.kreuzchor.com Author: Mandy Weigel, Dresden; Photos: © Dresdner Kreuzchor/ Matthias Krüger; Sylvio Dittrich, Dresden (p. 35)

Fresh Hope from Dresden www.oncoray.de Author: Ketchum Pleon Dresden in cooperation with decorum Kommunikation/Carsten Schulz-Nötzold; Photos: © Dresden University Hospital

Königstein Fortress www.festung-koenigstein.de Author: decorum Kommunikation/ Carsten Schulz-Nötzold; Photos: © Königstein Fortress/Bernd Walther (p. 38, 41, 42), Frank Lochau/Procopter (p. 40), Sebastian Thiel (p. 44, 45); Sylvio Dittrich, Dresden (p. 36, 43)

Shooting the Rapids www.kanupark-markkleeberg.com Author: decorum Kommunikation/ Carsten Schulz-Nötzold; Photos: © Markkleeberg Canoe Park

Joie de Vivre on a Plate www.falco.de Author: Mandy Weigel, Dresden; Photos: © Restaurant Falco Leipzig/ Ralf Müller, Matthias Hamel The Transition of Art www.ibug-art.de Author: decorum Kommunikation/ Stephanie Rinck; Photos: © Conny Heimer (p. 55, 56, 58, 60), Ralph Koehler (p. 59), Thomas Dietze (p. 61 bottom) New Life inside Old Walls www.purschenstein.de Author: decorum Kommunikation/Nicole Marx; Photos: © Purschenstein Castle Hotel/ pixacon-360grad-team I´m a Saxopolitan www.renepape.com Author: Axel Brüggemann; Photos: © Katzermediagroup/Mathias Bothor (p. 71), Matthias Creutziger (p. 72, 74, 75 top), Frank Höhler (p. 75), still image (p. 77) Eleven Dots of Perfection www.wendt-kuehn.de Author: Mandy Weigel, Dresden; Photos: © Wendt & Kühn KG Grünhainichen

The Bandoneon and Tango www.bandonion-carlsfeld.de Author: decorum Kommunikation/ Carsten Schulz-Nötzold; Photos: © fotolia/corbis infinite (p. 100) © Bandonion und Concertinafabrik Klingenthal GmbH Cultural Highlights Photos: © Gewandhaus Leipzig/Jens Gerber (p. 106, 112); Staatsoperette Dresden/Stephan Floß (p. 108 top), Kai-Uwe Schulte-Bunert (p. 113); Leipzig Opera/ida Zenner (p. 108 bottom); Dresden State Art Collections/ Hans Christian Krass (p. 111) Imprint Photo: © Schlösserland Sachsen/ Pillnitz Castle/Zielske Editorial deadline: 17 March 2016 SIGHTGEIST No. 10 will be published in April 2017.

For all information about travelling to and in Saxony, please contact Tourism Marketing Company of Saxony Bautzner Straße 45–47 01099 Dresden, Germany Phone +49 351 491700 Fax +49 351 4969306 info@sachsen-tour.de www.visitsaxony.com

Visit Dresden

www.dresden.de/dresdenmagazine www.dresden.de/events

Celebrating together Whatever you have in mind and whatever sets your pulse racing, Dresden is your stage and arena. Brace yourself for some thrilling experiences.

Martin Luther – 500 years since the Reformation History and culture in Germany. On the trail

Dresden Music Festival 05.05. – 05.06.2016

of Martin Luther. The St. Anna’s Church in Augsburg. The chapel at Torgau’s Hartenfels Palace. The Luther

International DixieIand Festival 15.05. – 22.05.2016

Discover the life of one man whose legacy spans 500 years of history in 2017: www.germany.travel/luther

CANALETTO – The Dresden City Festival 810 Years of Dresden 19.08. – 21.08.2016

Inara Jumabekova & Valtemir Lima dos Santos

_visionary visionary

© imago

towns of Eisleben and Wittenberg. The city of Worms. The Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

TIME IS THE SAME EVERYWHERE. B U T N O T A LWAY S T H I S A P P E A L I N G .

Some of Saxony’s attractions can be worn on your wrist. To experience all the others, you’ll need to visit Saxony yourself. Watches from Glashütte are exclusive, precision masterpieces that are valued around the

world. The beauty, unique appeal and culture of the region have made many visitors lose track of time. For further information visit www.saxonytourism.com (USA and Canada) or www.visitsaxony.com.

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