Construction work on the façade of the Semperoper continues until November

The balustrades on the Elbe side of the Semperoper are currently being renovated. (Archive photo) / Photo: Monika Skolimowska/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB

Sandstone is only partially weatherproof due to its porous structure. This is why renovations are regularly necessary. At the Semperoper, the columns of the balustrades are currently affected.

The construction work on the façade of the Semperoper in Dresden should be completed by the end of November. "A total of around 990,000 euros has been budgeted for the structural strengthening and structural renewal of the balustrades," announced the Saxon State Enterprise for Real Estate and Construction Management (SIB). The first section of balustrades on the Zwinger side was already completed in 2025. Now it's the Elbe side's turn. The columns (balusters) above the main entrance are to be secured in 2027.

Almost all columns must be replaced with copies

Due to their poor condition, 50 copies of the 54 existing sandstone balusters must be made, it was said. The first step for the pedestals and plinth areas will be a gentle dry cleaning with brushes. They will then be desalinated with compresses for four to six weeks. The new balusters are made from a harder sandstone.

Additional emergency overflows required due to heavy rainfall

Due to the increase in heavy rainfall as a result of climate change, additional emergency overflows need to be installed in the structure. "Additional water drainage plates ensure that the water can be diverted in heavy wind and rain and flows directly into the gutter," explained the SIB.

Construction work on the façade of the Semperoper continues until November

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