The term "Welfs" refers to a prominent noble family in medieval Europe, particularly in the regions of Germany and Italy. They were part of the larger Guelph faction, which supported the papacy during the conflicts between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. The Welfs played a significant role in the political landscape of the time, often opposing the Hohenstaufen dynasty. The Welf family produced several notable figures, including Henry the Lion, a powerful duke in Bavaria and Saxony. Their influence extended beyond politics, impacting culture and society in the regions they controlled. The legacy of the Welfs can still be seen in various historical sites and institutions today.