 Originating from a monastery, Obernzell was first owned by the Lords of Griesbach and belonged to Bishopric Passau since 1217 as "Griesbach at lower market" or "low-Griesbach in the cell" and it further comprised a unit with Untergriesbach.In 1283, it had a parish, in 1359 it was granted market rights.During this time, processing of clay and graphite was the most important economic factor.