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St. Nicholas Church in Simrishamn Photographer Elisabeth Wikenhed.JPG

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HISTORY 

In the south-eastern part of Skåne, people have left clear traces in the landscape from the Stone Age onwards – from ancient rock carvings and ship settings to medieval castles and churches. Old mills and stone quarries bear witness to 19th-century people's attempts to make a living from the land. 

Ales Stenar Kåseberga

Ales Stenar Kåseberga

This mysterious ancient monument above Kåseberga harbor consists of 59 large stones arranged in the shape of a ship, measuring 67 meters long. It is believed to have been built during the Iron Age, around 600 AD. The purpose of the monument is unclear—it may have served as a burial site, a sundial, or a sacred space. The site is stunningly located high above the sea and attracts many visitors every year.

Gislövshammar

Gislövshammar

The unique coastal landscape of Gislövshammar is shaped by smooth cobblestones. The round holes in the shore rocks are remnants of 19th-century millstone drillings, creating a shoreline that feels almost surreal today. Now a protected ancient monument, it’s well worth a visit for both history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a truly unique visual experience.

Glimmingehus

Glimmingehus

Glimmingehus is the best-preserved medieval castle in the Nordic countries.
Construction began in 1499, when the region of Skåne was part of Denmark, commissioned by the knight Jens Ulfstand. Fortified to withstand enemies, it features a moat, a drawbridge, and murder holes for pouring boiling tar on attackers!
Now exceptionally well-preserved, the castle serves as a living museum, complete with a medieval kitchen, many fascinating archaeological finds, and a gift shop.
In summer, visitors can enjoy guided tours and medieval-themed activities for both children and adults.

Sankt Nicolai kyrka, Simrishamn

Sankt Nicolai kyrka, Simrishamn

Saint Nicolai Church in Simrishamn dates back to before 1161, when it was mentioned as a fishermen’s chapel. In the 13th century, an unusually large nave was added, and around 1500 the tower was built. In the 19th century, the facade was covered with cement plaster, but in 1953 the original stone facade was restored thanks to the initiative of Carl Milles, who donated the sculpture “The Sisters” on the condition that the plaster was removed. In 1978, Milles’ sculpture “Angel with Trumpet” was added. The church’s interior features Renaissance and Baroque details, including an altarpiece from the early 1600s and a pulpit from 1626.

The Haväng dolmen

The Haväng dolmen

The Haväng Dolmen is a Stone Age tomb located at Haväng, north of Kivik.
It dates back approximately 5,500 years and is a typical dolmen – a megalithic grave constructed with large stone slabs and a capstone.
The tomb is beautifully situated by the sea, surrounded by heathlands and sand dunes, which gives the site a particularly atmospheric setting.
The Haväng Dolmen stands as a testament to the beliefs, culture, and burial practices of ancient people in southern Sweden.

The Monastery in Ystad

The Monastery in Ystad

The Monastery in Ystad, founded in 1267 by Franciscan monks, is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in Sweden.
Centrally located in Ystad, it has a rich history marked by both religious and secular use over the centuries.
Today, the monastery serves as a museum featuring exhibitions on medieval life, art, and the history of the town.
Its beautiful monastic garden and the building’s Gothic architecture attract many visitors each year.

The Rock Carving Trail

The Rock Carving Trail

The Rock of Axes and the Stenkil Carving are two significant Bronze Age rock art sites located near Simrishamn. The Rock of Axes features over 200 figures, including around 50 axes, 45 ships, sun wheels, and cup marks. It lies in a gently rolling agricultural landscape with sweeping views. The Stenkil Carving, situated to the west, displays 65 motifs, including ships with horse-shaped prows and processions of axe-bearing figures. A 1.5 km walking trail connects the two sites, offering a unique glimpse into the symbolism and ritual life of the Bronze Age.

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