What happened in Dresden on the night of February 13 to 14 was not only the most powerful bombing raid on the European front but has also left a deep mark in the memories of those who experienced it. The author, a native of Dresden and a witness to the shocking events, not only describes this catastrophe of the century but also discusses Dresden's significance in the air war overall, attempting to separate facts from rumors. Based on valuable photographic and cartographic material, British and American interpretations, and partly newly introduced documents, a historical work has emerged that impresses with its objective fidelity to facts.