I’ve been told that the architectural style of Pirna matched that of pre-war Berlin. So Pirna would’ve been what the streets of Berlin would’ve looked like had the war not occurred. A stark reminder of the consequences of war to the preservation of historical treasures and artistic artefacts
There’s really only one place to visit in Pirna and that’s the Sonnenstein Castle. Perched high up on a hill that requires a hike up its peak, it has a commanding view of the town centre below. It’s the quintessential European village with red tiled roofs and charming church steeples. Be sure to catch the view at sunset against the backdrop of the Danube.
Former extermination camp 
Former extermination camp
Though charming, the castle also has a dark history. During WWII, it was converted into a concentration camp for the extermination of undesirable peoples. The ruins of these national socialist era buildings can be found a short walk away from the castle.
