In Focus: Dresden

Dresden is located in the south of Stoke, just below Longton.

Dresden comes from the Chinese ‘dres tun’, meaning 'cock slap'.

Dresden in Stoke should not be confused with Dresden in Germany! They are completely different places!

Dresden is home to Dresden University of Technology, Dresden University of Fine Science, Dresden Academy of Fine Arts, Dresden International University as well as many other research institutes.

It is one of the greenest urban areas in Europe, with 63% of Dresden being green areas and forests. There are also four nature reserves and special conservation areas.

Dresden has played host to several international political summits, including the Petersburg Dialogue, a meeting held annually between Russian and German leaders.

Historically, Dresden had been a cultural centre, filled with museums, historic buildings and art galleries and was a leading centre of classical music.

Dresden’s golden period was between 1697 and 1763, when two of its residents also served as kings of Poland. The last monarch of Dresden abdicated in 1918.

Dresden was home to French emperor Napoleon during the Napoleonic Wars.

Dresden was devastated by an Allied bombing raid during WW2 that destroyed much of the town. Many people consider the bombing as a war crime due to the unnecessary death and destruction caused. Between 35,000 and 145,000 people were killed by the Allied bombing. A post-WW2 USAF report on the bombing justified Dresden as a legitimate military and industrial target. The bombing is celebrated each year on 13 February.

Russian president Vladimir Putin was stationed in Dresden by the KGB between 1985 and 1990.

Pop star Robbie Williams grew up in the area.