Construction and Architecture of Sanssouci Palace
Experience the impressive history of Sanssouci Palace, the baroque masterpiece of Frederick the Great, built between 1745 and 1747 on a vineyard in Potsdam. Discover the unique architecture of the single-story palace, with its magnificent southern façade and domed central structure, forming the heart of the park. The tour is complemented by the historic Picture Gallery, the oldest preserved princely museum building in Germany, and the New Chambers, which were originally used as an orangery and later transformed into an elegant guest palace. Immerse yourself in the artistic and architectural splendor of these outstanding monuments from a remarkable era.
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Baroque style castle on a vineyard
After the terracing of the vineyard and the planting of vines in 1744, Frederick the Great had Sanssouci Palace built in the Baroque style at the top of the vineyard, preserving the vineyard terraces. Between 1745 and 1747, the palace was constructed according to Frederick II’s vision and the designs of Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff. The building forms the centerpiece of the Sanssouci Park and represents a highlight of Frederician architecture. The construction was marked by a heated dispute between Frederick and Knobelsdorff: while the architect preferred a basement for the palace, Frederick desired a ground-level structure. Ultimately, the king prevailed, and the palace was built according to his wishes. It was ceremoniously inaugurated on May 1, 1747.
Originally conceived as a summer residence, Sanssouci Palace became Frederick II’s preferred residence, where he spent most of the year. Inspired by the French “Maison de plaisance,” the building is distinguished by its striking southern façade, crowned by an imposing domed central structure. The garden façade, famous for its 36 sandstone herms, is a popular photo subject. To the north, the courtyard of honor is connected by an elegant two-winged colonnade. A structural expansion under King Frederick William IV in 1841 added a western wing for the ladies of the court and an eastern wing for the kitchen and wine cellar. Discover the opulent interiors and the history of this architectural masterpiece, considered a cultural gem in Sanssouci Park.
Construction and architecture of Sanssouci Palace
The single-story, elongated Sanssouci Palace, originally designed as a summer residence, quickly became the favored home of Frederick the Great, where he spent most of the year. Inspired by a French “Maison de plaisance,” the palace combines Baroque elegance with functionality and is particularly renowned for its famous southern façade, crowned by an impressive domed central structure. The garden façade, adorned with 36 sandstone herms created by Friedrich Christian Glume the Younger, is a popular photo subject and gives the building its unique charm. To the north, an elegant courtyard of honor, featuring a two-winged colonnade, complements the overall aesthetic.
In 1841, King Frederick William IV added a western wing for the ladies of the court and an eastern wing for the kitchen and wine cellar, enhancing the palace’s functionality. Inside, visitors can discover the magnificent salons and lavishly decorated rooms, which still reflect the splendor of Frederician Rococo. To the east of the palace lies the impressive Picture Gallery, while the New Chambers are located to the west. Together, these three buildings form a harmonious ensemble within Sanssouci Park.
You can find information on the interior of Sanssouci Palace here.
Picture Gallery
Discover the impressive Picture Gallery in the park of Sanssouci Palace, a masterpiece of the 18th century and the oldest preserved princely museum building in Germany. Built between 1755 and 1764 by Frederick the Great, the gallery showcases a magnificent collection of over 140 paintings, spanning from the High Renaissance to the Baroque periods. Designed by Johann Gottfried Büring, the building itself is an architectural highlight, featuring opulent interior design with richly gilded ceiling ornaments and marble floors. The gallery houses important works by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Caravaggio, offering an unforgettable cultural experience in its majestic setting.
New Chambers
The New Chambers, located southwest of Sanssouci Palace in Sanssouci Park, were built by Frederick the Great starting in 1747 and originally served as an orangery, theater, banquet, and concert hall. Under the direction of Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff and Jan Bouman, an imposing building in the style of the Vineyard Palace was created, initially housing the palace’s potted plants. In 1768, Frederick had the orangery converted into a guest palace with four grand halls and a guest wing. The exterior design was largely preserved, but a central dome was added to maintain symmetry with the Picture Gallery to the east.
Today, the New Chambers are a prime example of late Frederician Rococo. The interiors, including the Blue Gallery, the Buffet Hall, the Ovid Gallery, and the Jasper Hall, are richly adorned with luxurious furnishings, such as lavish wood paneling and paintings. The Great Inlaid Cabinet is particularly notable for its intricate woodwork. The New Chambers stand as a significant example of guest architecture from the Frederician era and complete the three-part ensemble of buildings within Sanssouci Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of visiting Sanssouci Park and Sanssouci Palace?
Visiting Sanssouci Park is free of charge. However, you will need tickets for the palaces and attractions. We recommend the sanssouci+ combination ticket, which grants one-time access to all* open palaces of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg in Potsdam, including Sanssouci Palace, in one day. Reduced tickets are available from 17 euros. You can find more information about prices and tickets here.
What are the main attractions in Sanssouci Park?
Of course, Sanssouci Palace is the centerpiece and the main attraction of the park. However, the approximately 290-hectare Sanssouci Park offers many more highlights: in addition to the New Chambers and the Picture Gallery, you can explore the New Palace, the Orangery, the Chinese Tea House, the Roman Baths, the Peace Church, and much more. Be surprised by the majestic park landscape and plan enough time for your exploration. You can find more information about this here.
How do I best reach Sanssouci Palace, and are there parking options nearby?
Are there hotels near Sanssouci Park and Sanssouci Palace?
For your visit to Sanssouci Park and Sanssouci Palace, we recommend these hotels due to their excellent location and outstanding reviews. Discover the ideal accommodation for your exploration of Potsdam: MAXX Hotel Sanssouci Potsdam, Hotel Villa Monte Vino, Wyndham Garden Potsdam, and Hotel Brandenburger Tor Potsdam.