Travel to Germany : Celebrating 300 years of European porcelain manufacturing at Meissen

Travel to Germany: At the demonstration workshop of the State Porcelain factory in Meissen

Celebrating 300 years of European porcelain manufacturing at Meissen

January 05, 2010

A display of delicate and lovingly created pieces – from collector's crockery to little model figurines – will mark the 300th birthday of delicate Meissen porcelain. Celebrations open on 23rd January in the east German town in Saxony with the 'All Nations are Welcome' and 'Meissen Porcelain Zoo' exhibitions.

As the story goes, King Augustus the Strong ordered his subjects to find a way to manufacture gold. After much experimenting, scholars finally discovered the next best thing – ‘white gold’ or porcelain, which proved a blessing for both the King and Meissen. On 23rd January 2010, it will be 300 years to the day since Augustus the Strong signed the company's founding charter.

The myth of porcelain
The first porcelain in Europe was produced at the 300-year-old porcelain factory in Meissen. The factory brought fame to the town through the porcelain it exported around the world featuring the hallmark of two blue crossed swords. A spectacular wealth and variety of exhibits illustrates the history of porcelain manufacturing.

The Saxon town of Meissen is inextricably linked with porcelain and a visit to the porcelain factory is naturally a ‘must’ for any visitor. However, this charming town has many other attractions to offer including architectural highlights such as Meissen Cathedral with its characteristic towers.

Meissen Cathedral
Meissen's Gothic cathedral, the construction of which began in 1250, is a firmly established feature of the townscape. Its uneven towers give it a unique appeal. The west towers date from the 14th century, but were actually completed between 1904 and 1908, while the south-east tower dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. The seven statues in the cathedral depict great figures such as Empress Adelheid and Emperor Otto I – founders of the Meissen diocese and cathedral.

Porcelain Factory
A bust of Johann Friedrich Böttger, who produced Europe's first porcelain in Meissen

A bust of Johann Friedrich Böttger, who produced Europe's first porcelain in Meissen

From the 13th century onwards, people began importing porcelain to Europe from China at exorbitant prices. It was not until the beginning of the 18th century that research carried out under the Elector of Saxony solved the mystery of how to manufacture porcelain.

The porcelain factory in Meissen was established at Albrechtsburg Castle in June 1710, before being moved to a new production site at Meissen-Triebischtal between 1863 and 1865.

The factory's Porcelain Museum, demonstration workshops and exhibition hall give visitors a chance to experience 300 years of porcelain manufacturing with a number of spectacular exhibits and guided tours in several languages. There are also concerts in the exhibition hall, home to the world's first organ with porcelain pipes.

The old quarter
In the shops on the market square, Heinrichsplatz square, Burgstrasse and in the winding streets of the old quarter, you will find a whole range of items on offer from hand-painted Meissen porcelain, antiques, fashion and jewellery to arts and crafts from the Erzgebirge mountains and genuine Meissen Goldriesling wine. The "Meissen-Card" entitles you to discounts in participating shops.

Eating out
The 'Vincenz Richter' wine tavern

A trip to Meissen is not only a historical tour into the heart of Saxony, it is also a culinary experience. Situated in a first-rate wine-growing region, the town has no shortage of quaint and elegant taverns, wine cellars and wineries.

According to a historical document from 1470, the Domkeller is the oldest restaurant in Meissen and its history is inextricably linked with that of Albrechtsburg Castle and the cathedral. The Domkeller was originally built as a bell ringer's house. High up on Burgberg hill, diners can now enjoy magnificent views of the town along with delicious Saxon cuisine and an excellent glass of wine from the Elbe valley.

The Romantik Hotel Vincenz Richter, family-owned since 1873, is an ancient wine tavern dating from 1523. Time seems to have stood still here – the walls, ceilings, display cabinets, doors and windows are adorned with a wealth of priceless antiques. Guests can enjoy an outstanding range of Saxon cuisine and exquisite wines produced at the restaurant's own winery served at ancient Gothic tables in the wine bar, wine-tasting room or in the romantic courtyard.