Marienwarte

The 22.8-meter-high Marienwarte on Reinberg was built in 1891. The reason for this at the time was an initiative of the Wels Beautification Association. To reach the Marienwarte, new paths were laid out and trees were planted on the previously existing meadows and pastures. From the viewing platform, which is 391.1 meters above sea level, one has a wonderful view of the city of Wels, the Traun plain, and in good weather even as far as the Hausruck, the Bohemian Forest, and the Alps. The Marienwarte can also be reached via the Reinberg-Runde hiking route. Archduchess Marie Valerie (1868 - 1924), the favorite daughter of Empress Elisabeth and Emperor Franz-Joseph, often visited the Marienwarte with her mother. She moved to Wels in 1890 to Schloss Lichtenegg, as her husband was stationed there as a Rittmeister (cavalry captain) with the Wels Dragoons. Marie Valerie was particularly involved in social causes. Among other things, she took over the patronage of the children's day-care center and the Lichtenegg elementary school. Through her presence and her high-ranking visitors, she brought a little of the flair of the big world to Wels. However, she especially enjoyed the peace and independence - far away from the strict Viennese court ceremonial. Her mother often visited her here in Wels; they took joint walks and excursions. Even more frequently, the Emperor himself came to the city, spent several Christmases here, and played with his grandchildren. Marie Valerie writes in her diary: "...He sat on the floor with the children, played hide-and-seek with them, and rejoiced with them at their St. Nicholas gifts." In 1897, the Emperor's daughter left Wels with a heavy heart. The growing family and a transfer of her husband forced a move to Wallsee.