At the western end of the main promenade in Sanssouci Parc, known as the Hauptallee, rises a monumental palace building, the New Palace, whose high tambour, or drummed cupola, is recognizable from quite a distance. This colossal, architectural complex clearly served an official, representative function, in sharp contrast to the intimate, and rather modest, vineyard palace. 
The interior is filled with luxurious ceremonial halls, magnificant galleries and richly designed private suites. The New Palace is also home to works of art and decorative objects from the 18th century in their original surroundings as well as the Sanssouci Palace theatre which is located in the southern wing. 
The New Palace was the last palace built by Frederik the Great in this park. It's opulence and grandeur served as a clear reminder of the continuing power of the Prussian state after years of deprivation caused by the Seven Years' War (1756-63). Frederick himself rarely stayed at the palace and it was later used predominantely as guest apartments and for festivities. It was not until the reign of Wilhelm II, Germany's last emperor, that the New Palace became the main royal residence.