In the 12th century, a number of fishermen and their families settled where the sea met the land near the now covered mouth of the river Vassån. From this settlement grew Ystad, today a central meeting place for people, ideas and cultures. The town's buildings are proof of a long, exciting history.
St. Maria Church and Monastery were built back in the 13th century, while a variety of preserved buildings and environments from the centuries that followed are evidence of the town's expansion over the years.
Today, Ystad is a modern town with a huge range and opportunities to live a good life. The town's coastal location, chosen by those early settlers, provides excellent access to the Baltic Sea. There is also a sandy beach in the centre of town and more than 40 km of beach facing south towards Österlen. Ystad is close by.
Culture and nature
Ever since the ferry links started from Ystad in the 17th century, music and theatre have played an important role.
Today, the cultural life buzzes as never before, and the town's traditional theatre is often the hub of cultural events.
The municipality is host to many active societies and associations who are happy to show off their skills when the opportunity arises.
Wallander
In 2004, Ystad was transformed into a film town. It had long been known as the home of Inspector Kurt Wallander in Henning Mankell's popular books, but that year filming based on the books and scripts by the author commenced.
Around fifty films have been made in the region since then, and several are still in production. Since 1991, when the first book came out, Wallander tourists have visited Ystad to experience the scenes for real.
http://www.visitystadosterlen.se/en
Video: The film about Ystad
Video: The Ystad Tower Watchman