The Zwinger is one of the lesser known repositories of artistic riches of the world, tucked away as it were in one of the forgotten corners of Europe that spent far too long both under the jackboot and behind the iron curtain. Once the festival grounds of King Augustus it has survived and now thrives as a glorious museum where the late king’s treasures recline in opulence for the benefit of museum goers.

Entire volumes could and and indeed have been written about the Zwinger, but it bears mentioning that if you have even a slight interest in the renaissance, fine art, or the Holy Roman Empire you will thoroughly relish the opportunity to sink your teeth into such a juicy cache. The Zwinger is not without visitors however they come in much more manageable numbers than in similar European museums.