Zwinger

Rococo-style building complex (1709–32), on the southern bank of the Elbe in Dresden, Germany, designed by Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann (1662–1736). Originally planned as the forecourt for a castle, it is considered one of the finest works of its style in the world. It comprises one- and two-story buildings surrounding an immense square court. Its festive air is accented by bold, richly sculpted and ornamented facades and gates and by dramatic contrasts between its low arcades and high pavilions.