Stallhof (Stall Courtyard), Dresden

Stall Courtyard is the stable yard of the residential palace. It was built in 1586 for Christian I from designs by Giovanni Maria Nosseni. It is one of the oldest tournament arenas in the world that has retained its original design.

The stable yard were heavily damaged during the air raids of World War II. Reconstruction began in 1957 but is not yet completed. However, most of the exterior, gallery space and upper floor was restored. The gallery is open to the public as part of the Dresden State Art Collections.

Reconstruction of the Stall Courtyard included the restoration of the Renaissance ceiling, 17th century bronze columns and the 16th century sandstone pool. Thirteen columns are preserved as well. There were originally 34 of these, which were cast by Merten Hilger in 1591. A mural made from 23,000 porcelain tiles on the outer wall of the Stall Courtyard shows the history of the Saxon dynasty.

Stall Courtyard is now used for cultural events, theatrical performances and horse shows.