With the foundation of the "Mark Meißen" in the 10th century, it became possible to confirm when the Pirna area had been settled. The castle of Prina was built during the 12th century. Henry III, Margrave of Meissen established the rights of the town of Pirna officially. At this time, the river Elbe was important for trade. The town was first mentioned in writing in 1233. Wenceslaus II of Bohemia bought the town in 1293, so the town was Bohemian until 1405. In 1307, a convent, a complex where nuns lived, was founded in the district.