Dresden is the capital of Saxony. The city is also called the "Florence on the Elbe" for its rich collections of art and impressive architectural monuments. It is now one of the most popular travel destinations in Germany and Europe. Also known for having suffered one of the most horrific bombing in human history, which occurred on February 14, 1945 (the victims vary between 65,000 and 135,000). Dresden today, after decades of neglect, is returned to the new generation in all its beauty and magnificence. Symbol of this rebirth is the Frauenkirche in the city center. During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries it claimed a seat for the voters and became a fervent cultural center. In the following centuries, thanks to the cultural interests of Frederick Augustus II and Frederick Augustus III, gave impetus to some very interesting architectural works, including the first Opera house, in 800 directly from Weber, and the subsequent Opera by Wagner. The oldest part of town is the area known today as the Altstadt, the old city with its monumental area of the Castle, the Theatre Square on the one hand, the Frauenkirche on the other and the Altmarkt. On the opposite side of the river lies the area known today as Neustadt, which originates from the village of Altendresden rebuilt after a fire from the times of Augustus II. The Elbe River creates a kind of green belt in the city, lined with magnificent parks and gardens. It make Dresden one of the greenest cities in Europe. Going up the river to Pillnitz, you will find the residential Dresden, small villages outside the city, where during the eighteenth century the nobility and rich bourgeoisie built their residences and villas. The capital of Saxony is famous for its gardens and green spaces, beautiful city parks and ancient castles still able to convey a sense of charm and intellectual sophistication. The cultural, economic and social development of extreme interest makes Dresden, together with Berlin, a symbol of the rebirth of Germany.