The Brühl Terrace is one of the most popular places in Dresden. The terraced promenade offers some beautiful architecture combined with magnificent views over the Elbe river.The terrace was originally part of ramparts built to protect the city. Between 1739 and 1748 count Henrich von Brühl, a powerful minister under King Augustus the Strong, transformed the ramparts into a terraced garden for his palace. Goethe gave it the name 'Balcony of Europe'. In 1814, after a monumental staircase was built connecting the Schlossplatz with the terrace, the gardens were opened to the public. The staircase is flanked by four bronze sculptures, each symbolizing one moment of the day.