Neues Palais

Neues Palais stands on the western side of Sanssouci Park in Potsdam, Germany, as the last grand Prussian Baroque palace. Its three-winged structure rises beneath a dome crowned by the Three Graces. The 220-metre façade uses painted effects to imitate brickwork, while more than 400 sandstone figures adorn its exterior.

Construction began in 1763, after the Seven Years’ War, under Frederick the Great and finished in 1769. The palace celebrated Prussian success and displayed royal power rather than serving as a principal residence. More than 200 rooms include four grand gathering rooms, the Grotto Hall, the Marble Hall and a theatre. Baroque and Rococo details reflect Frederick’s taste, while architects Johann Gottfried Büring and Carl von Gontard shaped the design.

After Frederick’s death in 1786, the palace became the summer residence of Crown Prince Frederick William in 1859. Steam heating and electrification later brought modern amenities under Wilhelm II. Paintings and sculptures fill the interior, where the Marble Hall provides one memorable glimpse of courtly splendour.