Neumarkt (New Market Square), Dresden

New Market Square (Neumarkt), located in the heart of Dresden, is a historically significant square that has experienced extensive transformations over the centuries. Originally established on a slight elevation above the flood-prone Elbe River, this area began as a small village surrounding the Frauenkirche. It became part of the fortified city in 1530 when Dresden expanded its walls, distinguishing itself from the Altmarkt, which was centered around the Kreuzkirche.

The New Market flourished during the reign of August II the Strong, a period marked by the adoption of the Baroque architectural style. This era saw the construction of the current Frauenkirche and numerous surrounding structures. The square further evolved in the 18th century following damage from the Seven Years' War, with many buildings being restored or reconstructed in the Rococo/Late Baroque style.

By the 19th and early 20th centuries, the New Market Square underwent few changes, with significant renovations such as the completion of the Johanneum in 1873 and the construction of the Albertinum and the Academy of Fine Arts by the late 1800s. However, the area was nearly obliterated during the Allied bombing in World War II.

Following the war, Dresden fell under Soviet control and later became part of the German Democratic Republic. During this time, parts of the square were reconstructed in a Socialist Realist style, and some historic buildings were partially rebuilt. However, many plots remained undeveloped.

The Neumarkt is now divided into eight "quarters," each considered a separate project in terms of reconstruction. The approach is to rebuild buildings either entirely as they were or at least to replicate the original facades. As of 2020, most quarters are complete, with only Quarter III and Quarter VII still under construction, signaling a near-complete revival of this storied square.