Schloss Sanssouci, englisch
The palace of Sanssouci, which sits jewel-like atop terraces of vines, was one of the favourite residences of Frederick the Great, the King of Prussia (r. 1740–86). No other palace is so intimately bound up with his person.
Intended as a summer residence, the palace was built from 1745 to 1747 to the King’s stipulations by architect Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff. The name “Sans Souci”, French for “carefree”, expressed Frederick the Great’s wish to embrace a life of pleasure, and this informs every aspect of the building. Highlights of a tour around the palace include the lavishly appointed King’s apartments, the elegant guest rooms furnished in a variant of the Rococo style associated with Frederick and the magnificent Marble Hall.