Lund
Lund in Skåne is one of Sweden's oldest towns and a lively university city, known for its cathedral, its parks and cafés, and its excellent cycling network.
Lund lies in the historical province of Skåne (Scania). It is also known as a “student city”, as more than a third of its inhabitants are students. The city centre is characterised above all by cafés and parks. There are also numerous theatres, museums, exhibitions and film screenings in the city.
Together with Sigtuna, Lund is one of the oldest towns in the country; it was founded in 990 by a Viking king. In the 11th century Lund gradually became an ecclesiastical centre and eventually the seat of a bishop. After the Reformation many of Lund’s churches were torn down and the town fell increasingly into decline. In the 18th century Sweden was governed from Lund for two years, and the town gained political importance. Industrialisation in the 19th century affected Lund only slightly, as Malmö seemed more attractive. Apart from that, the church and the university dominated Lund very strongly. The university itself, however, flourished during this period: new faculties were founded and new buildings were erected on the campus. Lund’s population grew rapidly after the Second World War. Surrounding farmland was developed and the city expanded. Teaching was broadened with the founding of the Lund Institute of Technology. In 1983 Ideon, Sweden’s first science park, was founded in Lund; today it is home mainly to information technology and biotechnology companies.
The most important square in Lund is Stortorget, which is also the centre of the city. It is surrounded by numerous cafés and shops, the town hall and the city hall. Another attraction is the old trading square Mårtenstorget, which is used as a market square. The nearby central park is also an absolute highlight, as it was once home to the bishop’s residence. It also serves as an academic centre, since it gives access to almost all of the university buildings. The city park, laid out around 100 years ago, also attracts visitors like a magnet. It contains numerous sculptures, and viewing them is a pleasant way to pass the time, especially in summer.
Lund Cathedral is the oldest in all of Scandinavia and has stood for more than 900 years. Cyclists in particular will love Lund. Right at the railway station there is a bike rental service and parking for your trusty two-wheeler. The cycle path network is very well developed and is supported by the state. In addition, Malmö and Copenhagen can be reached in a very short time.