Stallhöfisches Adventsspektakel

Step back in time at the Mittelalter-Weihnacht im Stallhof, Dresden's enchanting medieval Christmas market set within the historic Stallhof courtyard of Dresden Royal Palace. Built in 1591, this remarkable venue is one of the few original tournament grounds remaining in the world, located just steps from the famous Fürstenzug and Frauenkirche. This authentic medieval market transports visitors to a bygone era with no loudspeaker announcements, minimal electric lighting, and absolutely no plastic—just flickering torchlight and live medieval music filling the ancient stone courtyard. Around 50 merchants and craftspeople work with period-accurate tools, materials, and clothing from the late Middle Ages, demonstrating traditional skills like blacksmithing, leatherworking, rope-making, wood carving, and turning. The market's most unique attraction is the "Bad in der Menge" (Bath in the Crowd)—two giant wooden washtubs elevated above the market where up to six people can soak in hot water while watching the festive activities below. Entertainment includes daily performances by musicians and jesters, with the covered Arkengang area offering heated seating cushions and the exclusive Fürstentafel (Prince's Table) for group bookings. After Christmas, the market transforms into the mystical "Dresdner Rauhnächte" (Twelve Nights) featuring fortune tellers and magical performers. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, making this atmospheric journey through medieval Christmas traditions available to all visitors.