Dresden, am I Really Here?

Ahhhh, it is lovely, just as I thought it would be.  I had an easy journey, only one change at Dresden Central for Dresden Mitte, which took me across the River Elbe and to my hotel. Today was Whit Monday and  I arrived when the reception was closed and had to fight my way in via Visa Card, Payment, reservation number and door number, it was like trying to get into Fort Knox.  It is a nice little hotel, very modern with everything I need and I am happy.

I could not settle until I had seen the main reason for my visit, "The Frauenkirche."  I could see the dome well before I reached the building itself and gasped when it came into view.  I cannot believe I am here!!   It is open daily and there is a regular service with organ music, so I will visit every day.

The old Squares with their buildings have been restored using amongst other resources, Canaletto's paintings.   In several places in the city are viewing areas, framing the scenes that he painted with an X marking the spot where he stood.  (see the bottom photo)  I will make sure I visit them all.   There is a pleasant mixture of old and new builidings and I am very impressed.  Tonight I plan my itinerary.