Overview:

: Wels Castle is a castle located in the city of Wels in Austria. This castle was built in the 14th century by the Habsburgs and was later used as a residence of the Archbishopric of Passau in 1504. The castle has been an important site in Austrian history. It is currently a museum with a variety of exhibitions about the history and culture of Wels. The castle underwent a major restoration project that began in 2009 and concluded in October 2018. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Austria
Prominent Features:

The most striking feature of Wels Castle in Austria is its Medieval design and architecture. This castle was built in the 14th century and is one of the best preserved fortifications of its era in Europe. Situated in the picturesque city of Wels, it stands as a reminder of the important role the city has played in Austria's long and eventful history. The castle is set against a backdrop of lush green forests making it an especially striking feature of the town. Inside, the castle is divided into two large courtyards, with the inner courtyard being surrounded by a four-sided wall. On one side of the castle, there is also an imposing gate which, together with the watchtowers, made it difficult for intruders to breach the castle in the past. Within the inner courtyard, visitors can explore and admire a number of fascinating features including a small chapel, several courtyards and a museum that showcases artifacts from the long history of Wels. The castle also boasts of its impressive collection of gardens, terraces, and arched walkways that provide tranquil and peaceful views of the surrounding countryside. Visiting Wels Castle is a great way to experience a bit of Austria's rich history and unique culture. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Austria.

History:

Wels Castle (German: Schloss Wels) is a castle in the city of Wels, Austria. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the castle was originally built in the 12th century and served as the residence of the Counts of Wels. Throughout its history, Wels Castle has been remodeled and expanded and today it is the administration center of the Oberösterreich government. The first reference to Wels Castle is from 1130, when it was a fortified castle belonging to the counts of Wels-Griesbach. It was expanded in the 12th century with a large bailey and several living quarters. During the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt in a Gothic style and by the end of the 13th century, it had become the residence of Henry VI, Duke of Bavaria-Wildeshausen. In the 15th century the castle was damaged and remodeled multiple times, and became a vassal of the Habsburg monarchy. In 1530, during the turmoil of the Reformation, the castle was seized by the Protestant forces of Prince-Archbishop Leonard von Keutschach. It was later returned to the Counts of Friesach in 1564, but reverted to the control of the Habsburg monarchy in 1606. During the 18th century, a number of modifications were made to the castle, including the addition of two baroque towers and the building of the Karl Ludwig Tower. In the 19th century, Wels Castle became a military fortress. During the 1866 Austro-Prussian War, it was besieged by the Prussian forces and it was heavily damaged in 1916 during World War I. After the war, the castle was reconstructed and today it is used as the government headquarters of Oberösterreich. Today, the castle is open to the public and it is managed by the Oberösterreich Cultural Association. The castle makes a great setting for a variety of cultural activities and festivals. Regular visitors can explore the castle's chapel, arsenal, and armory, as well as its museum, which features artwork from the 15th-19th centuries. Visit one of the famous monuments of Austria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Wels Castle, the late-medieval fortress located in Wels, Upper Austria, was founded in 1145 when the House of Babenberg was in power. 2. The upper castle was significantly expanded between 1570 and 1586, and it was used as both a residence and a defensive military post. 3. During the Napoleonic era, the castle was heavily damaged, but it has since been restored in recent years. 4. The castle was used as the set of the 1985 movie 'Fire and Sword'. 5. During the Second World War, Wels Castle was commandeered by the SS. 6. In 1969, it was opened to the public as a museum. 7. The highlights of the museum include the Knights Hall, the Eagle Tower, and the Legislative Council chambers, as well as the city wall and the moat. One of the historical monuments of Austria, it tells the story of a bygone era