The Duke of Kent has paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the bombing of Dresden, taking part in ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the devastating attacks.
Prince Edward joined a solemn circle of remembrance in the heart of Dresden, standing hand in hand with others around the city’s historic old town. This annual tradition commemorates those who perished during the bombing and throughout World War II.
Remembering the past
Between February 13 and 15, 1945, nearly 4,000 tonnes of bombs were dropped on Dresden as Allied forces advanced toward the final defeat of Nazi Germany. The air raids obliterated much of the city, resulting in the deaths of approximately 25,000 people.
The 80th-anniversary commemorations focused on honoring the civilians who perished. The Duke of Kent attended a service of remembrance at the Frauenkirche, a church that was destroyed in the bombing and painstakingly rebuilt over the years. In 2000, he personally presented a restored Cross and Orb, a symbolic gift from the people of the United Kingdom, to be placed atop the reconstructed church.
A longstanding commitment
The Duke also participated in official commemorations at Dresden Town Hall, a building heavily damaged during the war and later restored. Additionally, he visited Neumarkt Square, where he met with schoolchildren learning about Dresden’s history through the Dresden Lernweg, an educational initiative supported by the Dresden Trust.
Founded in 1993, the Dresden Trust has played a key role in the city’s post-war redevelopment and in fostering strong ties between the UK and Dresden. The Duke of Kent, who has long been involved in its work, serves as the Trust’s Royal Patron.
A symbol of reconciliation
The day concluded with a performance of Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem by the Dresden Philharmonie at the Dresden Kulturpalast. Originally composed to commemorate the consecration of Coventry Cathedral—rebuilt after its destruction in Nazi air raids—the requiem serves as a powerful reminder of reconciliation. Coventry and Dresden, now twin cities, continue to collaborate in promoting peace, understanding, and economic growth.
Representing King Charles III at the commemorations, the Duke of Kent, now 89, reaffirmed his deep connection to Dresden, a city that has worked tirelessly to rebuild both its landmarks and its international relationships. Photo by Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Wikimedia commons.
