[2] Although the construction of the line had been discussed and planned since 1873, the permit to build the railway was not issued until 1893.

The railway was opened on October 26, 1895, and was originally run by a steam engine.

During the bombing of Dresden on the 13 February 1945, the lower station of the funicular was destroyed.

However the cars had been moved into the line's tunnels for safety, and survived.

[3][4][needs update] The funicular operates between 06:30 and 21:00 on weekdays, and between 09:00 and 21:00 at weekends and public holidays.