Stadtplatz

The current appearance of Wels' Stadtplatz has developed over centuries and still tells the story of the city's eventful history. As early as the 12th century, a cemetery stretched east of the square, reaching into the area where the city parish church is located today. The square presumably took on its current size and significance in the 13th century, when it increasingly developed into the center of urban life.Today, the Stadtplatz, in its architectural coherence, is one of the most beautiful street squares in Austria. Magnificent bourgeois houses with facades from the Gothic, Renaissance, and especially Baroque periods characterize the image and give the square its unmistakable character. Behind the often later designed facades, much older building fabric is often hidden – especially in the inner courtyards, history can be traced back to the Gothic and Renaissance periods.One step onto the Stadtplatz – and suddenly it feels like a short vacation in the south. The scent of freshly roasted coffee is in the air, glasses clink in the sun, and lively chatter emanates from the outdoor dining areas. In between, a water feature splashes, while people linger on the benches and enjoy the special flair. The Stadtplatz is a place of arrival and lingering, where history and present naturally connect.Since the Middle Ages, the square served as a central marketplace, where mainly cattle and agricultural products were traded. This tradition continues to this day: weekly markets, Advent markets, and antique markets regularly bring new life to the square and tie into its long history as a meeting point.At the same time, the Stadtplatz has developed into a lively center of enjoyment in recent years. Around 700 outdoor dining seats invite you to linger – surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and pubs that offer a wide culinary variety, from traditional Austrian cuisine to international specialties. Whether a relaxed coffee in the morning, a light lunch, or an aperitivo in the afternoon sun – everyone will find their personal favorite spot here.What surprises many: The Welser Stadtplatz combines historical ambiance with an almost Mediterranean lightness. Between lovingly renovated facades, lively alleys, and green oases of tranquility, a way of life emerges that one might not expect – and precisely for that reason, appreciates all the more.Those who explore the Stadtplatz will also discover numerous sights in the immediate vicinity: Wels Castle, the idyllic castle garden, the Minorite Monastery, or the Welios Science Center. The pedestrian zone with its small, often family-run shops also invites you to stroll, while the Traun, just a few steps away, offers additional recreation in nature.For all who want to experience the city even more intensely, the free Hearonymus app offers an informative tour through Wels – ideal for discovering the historic old town on your own and listening to exciting stories about the individual sights.