German State Visit to Coventry Cathedral

As part of last week’s German State Visit, Dresden Trust Chairman Marcus Ferrar accompanied Dresden Trust patron, HRH The Duke of Kent and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to a service at Coventry Cathedral. The ceremony included the laying of wreaths, moments of remembrance, and reflections on the enduring relationship between Coventry and Dresden.

Coventry and Dresden were twinned in 1959, united by their shared suffering during the Second World War and their commitment to reconciliation in the decades that followed.

“Coventry and Dresden share a story shaped by destruction, rebuilding, and courageous friendship. Yet our gathering stands for more than the bond between two cities. It speaks of the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and Germany- nations that have walked through the devastations of war, embraced reconciliation and now stand side by side as advocates for peace in Europe and across the world. ”

- Dean of Coventry, Friday, 5th December 2025