New Palace | The Last Palace Commissioned by Frederick the Great 🏰

The New Palace (Neues Palais) is a magnificent Baroque palace located in the western part of Sanssouci Park in Potsdam, Germany. Commissioned by King Frederick II of Prussia (Frederick the Great), its construction began in 1763 and was completed in 1769. As one of the largest Baroque palaces in Prussia, it is also the last palace commissioned by Frederick the Great. The design of the New Palace drew inspiration from Castle Howard in England and the Trippenhuis in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Frederick II intended to create a Palladian-style building ✨. The palace’s interior is exquisitely decorated, featuring spaces such as the Marble Hall, the Upper and Lower State Apartments, the Marble Gallery, and a theater. These areas showcase the high-level art and craftsmanship of the 18th century 🎨. With a grand architectural style, the palace’s exterior is built of red brick and adorned with copper domes. Its magnificent domes and opulent decorations are its most striking features 🧱. Inside, there are 200 rooms, housing some of the most valuable furniture, paintings, porcelain, and works of art. In front of the New Palace stand several other important structures, including the Temple of Antiquities and the Temple of Friendship—both designed based on sketches by Frederick the Great 🛕. More than just an architectural masterpiece, the New Palace is a museum housing rich cultural heritage and precious collections, attracting tourists and art enthusiasts from around the world 🌍. The auxiliary building on the west side of the palace houses some departments and administrative offices of the University of Potsdam 🎓. As a museum, the New Palace is open to the public and managed by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation Berlin-Brandenburg. Steeped in historical significance, the New Palace has witnessed Prussia’s triumphs and defeats. Its halls have hosted important events and state affairs. From 1888 to 1918, it served as the main residence of Wilhelm II, German Emperor 👑. During World War II, the New Palace escaped bombing and remains one of the best-preserved Prussian palace buildings 🕊️. A symbol of the Seven Years’ War, the construction of the New Palace was part of Frederick the Great’s declaration of Prussia’s national strength—it is known as the "symbol of victory after the war" ⚔️. Today, the New Palace is a key cultural heritage site in Potsdam and a popular tourist attraction. Some of its areas also belong to the University of Potsdam 📜. #PotsdamNewPalace #BerlinPalaces #BaroqueArchitecture #PrussianPalaces #Prussia #FrederickTheGreat