Making our way across eastern Germany, we spent a few days in Dresden. A city full of history, it is known both for is history and for its hip, alternative vibe. It boasts meticulously restored landmarks such as the Zwinger Palace and Frauenkirche, and quirky neighborhoods like the Neustadt. I saw a photo of the Kunsthofpassage and knew we had to check it out.
Across from the old city, the Neustadt district has a bohemian atmosphere. Known as the âstudent district,â itâs where you will find quirky shops, trendy cafes, and an eclectic street art scene. Tucked in between some nondescript buildings between Alaun and Görlitzer streets, you’ll find the star of the local art scene. Enter and you will find the Kunsthofpassage, hidden linked courtyards with funky art installations. Be on the lookoutâthe few entrances are easy to miss.
Welcome to the Dresden Kunsthofpassage
In 2001, a group of artists transformed this series of run-down courtyards into a vibrant art experience that harmonizes living, working and living. Each courtyard has a different theme, and is home a mix of apartments, shops and cafes. The courtyards are:
Court of Animals
Walking into the courtyard, you are immediately greeted by a giraffe. Look up and youâll see birds flying around and monkeys swinging from imaginary vines. Peacefully resting in the courtyard pond is a water buffalo.
Court of the Elements
This was my favorite courtyard and the reason we came to the Kunsthof Passage. Inspired by the large drainpipes in St. Petersburg, Russia, this intricate gutter system zig zags down the wall. Rainwater melodiously pours through the colorful funnels and drains. I bet this sounds incredible when it rains.
Court of Mythical Creatures
Look around, there are animals and fantasy figures all around. The southern facade depicts the river of life and creatures living together, while the northern facade represents the astral realm of higher energies, cosmic elements, stars, comets and love, the all-pervasive element that holds the universe together.
Court of Light
While this courtyard may look plain compared to the others, it’s really a performance stage. There are two overhangs that are actually (narrow!) stages and several projection surfaces, enabling multimedia performances and installations, film projections and action theater. Along one wall is a series of metal mirrors that create a variety of colored reflections depending on the position of the sun.
Court of Metamorphoses
After dark, hidden projectors illuminate the two heavy, rusty pillar. I wish we had seen this at night! There are also 24 different papers hanging in metal frames on the outside walls. Another wall displays various papers that were half-immersed in linseed oil and exposed to the weather, serving as a kind of long-term experiment.
Other things to do in the area
The Kunsthofpassage isnât the only art installation in the area. Street art is everywhere, and itâs worth walking around the neighborhood. There are plenty of shops and cafes to spend the afternoon. If youâre hungry, grab a doner kebab!
