Sonnenstein Castle in Pirna - a historic location with a unique panoramic view.
First mentioned in the 13th century, Sonnenstein Castle is a defining landmark above the town of Pirna. After various uses, including as a castle, garrison and sanatorium, it was extensively renovated in 2007-2011. Today it houses the administration of the district of Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains. The castle courtyard, park and bastions are well worth a visit. The castle's café and beer garden invite you to linger and offer a wonderful view over Pirna to Dresden. A permanent exhibition and a memorial area commemorate the disastrous history of the Pirna-Sonnenstein sanatorium and nursing home during the Nazi era. In 1940 and 1941, mainly mentally ill and mentally handicapped people were murdered here.