During the reign of the Saxon Elector Frederick Augustus I, known as "Augustus the Strong" (1670 to 1733), it was discovered that the plateau-like Zeithain Lower Terrace was exceptionally well-suited as a military maneuvering area and especially as a shooting range. From May 31 to June 28, 1730, the area between Zeithain, Radewitz, Streumen, and Lichtensee was used for the first time by approximately 30,000 soldiers and officers for military exercises. Forty-eight invited European princes and their military personnel observed the maneuvers. The Elector himself led the exercises, which became known in history as the "Zeithain Pleasure Camp" because of the copious feasting, drinking, and celebrations that took place there at night. Finally, all the ladies of the court of Dresden were also present. A restored obelisk made of Saxon sandstone, which was re-erected at the historic site in 2007 on the 277th anniversary of the first maneuver, still bears witness to the "Zeithain Pleasure Camp."
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