Wels

The area of Wels has been settled since the Neolithic era and gained importance in Roman times because of its central location in the province of Noricum. Around the year 120, Wels received roman city rights under the name of Municipium Ovilava. Around 215, it was named Colonia Aurelia Antoniana Ovilabis by Emperor Caracalla. At that time, the city already had 18,000 inhabitants. However, Wels completely lost its importance with the end of Roman rule.

In 1222, during the rule of the Babenberger family, Wels again received city rights. A document dating to 1328 provides evidence for Wels' important role as the location of a market. Its endowment with economic privileges, and its advantageous position upon several rivers allowed it to gain an important position in the region.

Emperor Maximilian I died in Wels on January 12, 1519, after having been denied access to Innsbruck by its citizens.

On January 18, 1964, Wels became a Statutarstadt of Austria.