Dresden has a fascinating history, particularly from its time as part of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). Our historical photos offer valuable insights into this past. You will find images of Dresden’s attractions, the city center and iconic landmarks. All images are available for private, editorial and (depending on the motif and agreement) commercial use.
Historical image database with pictures of Dresden from the GDR era
Our collection of GDR photos includes numerous historical images of Dresden that reflect the city’s rich history and architecture. Here are some of the places you mentioned, with brief descriptions:
Historical Dresden Motifs
- Ruin of the Frauenkirche: After its destruction in World War II, the Frauenkirche remained a ruin for decades and became a memorial against war. Its reconstruction was completed in 2005. Our photos date from the 1960s.
- Prager Straße: A major shopping street in Dresden, which was redesigned after the war and is an example of the architecture of the GDR period.
- Neubaugebiet Budapester Straße: A residential area that was built during the GDR period and represents the urban developments of that era.
- Altmarkt: The central square of Dresden, which has served as a marketplace since the Middle Ages and is surrounded by historic buildings.
- Ring-Café: A well-known café in Dresden that was a popular meeting place in the 1960s.Café Prag: Another traditional café that was appreciated for its architecture and atmosphere.
- Zwinger Palace: A baroque masterpiece originally used as an orangery and festival area, now housing museums.
- Semperoper: The opera house of the Saxon State Opera, known for its architecture and acoustics.Wilsdruffer Straße: An important traffic artery in Dresden, redesigned after the war.
- Vehicles and trams: Dresden has an extensive tram network that has been in operation since the 19th century.
- Elbe: The river that flows through Dresden and shapes the cityscape.
- Catholic Hofkirche: Also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, it is the main church of the Diocese of Dresden-Meißen.
- Residenzschloss: Former residence of the Saxon electors and kings, now a museum complex.
- Warenhaus am Altmarkt: A department store on Altmarkt that is an example of post-war architecture.
- Ehemalige Sophienkirche: A Gothic church that was demolished after the war.
- Kronentor des Zwingers: A striking gate of the Zwinger with a gilded crown.
These images offer a deep insight into the history and development of Dresden, especially during the GDR period from 1940 to 1970. They document the reconstruction, architectural changes and urban life of this era.
You can purchase and use the historical Dresden photos for various purposes: for example, for private prints / posters, editorial publications in the media, as part of a cinematographic work for cinema or TV and streaming content, or possibly for commercial and corporate purposes. Do you have any questions about a motif or a specific intended use? Please feel free to contact us.
