Numerous events are due to be held in Dresden on Tuesday to commemorate the destruction of the eastern German city in World War II 79 years ago.
With the traditional human chain through the historic centre and across the river Elbe, politicians and society want to send a particularly strong signal for peace and democracy this year.
A large number of protests against the appropriation of the anniversary by right-wing extremists have once again been announced, with the police saying they are prepared.
At the exact time of the first attack on February 13, 1945, the bells of the city centre churches will ring as usual while people join hands for a few minutes.
The main focus of the police operation is the evening, when events organized by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and groups from across the right-wing spectrum as well as counter-protests are planned for the landmark Old Market Square, the Altmarkt. Both right-wing and left-wing extremists are expected to attend.
The former residential city was destroyed by Allied bombs on February 13, 1945, and in the days that followed. According to research by historians, up to 25,000 people lost their lives.