Helsingborg

Helsingborg is a city in southern Sweden, the seat of Helsingborg Municipality in Skåne County, located on the narrow Øresund strait opposite Helsingør in Denmark. It has a significant port and serves as a regional center for commerce, services, and culture. The municipality’s population is around 150,000, with the city itself forming the urban core.

Historically, Helsingborg grew from a Danish stronghold in the Middle Ages. The remnants of Kärnan, a tall medieval fortress tower, mark the area as a historic maritime and trading hub. The town remained part of Denmark until 1658, when Skåne was ceded to Sweden by the Treaty of Roskilde. As part of Sweden, Helsingborg developed into an important port and urban center, with growth driven by trade, industry, and transportation links to the rest of southern Sweden and beyond.

Key landmarks and cultural sites include Kärnan, the 13th–14th century fortress tower; St. Mary Church (Sankta Maria kyrka); Sofiero Palace and its renowned gardens; and Dunkers Kulturhus, a major cultural hub. The waterfront and harbour area reflect the city’s maritime heritage, while the city’s historic and modern architecture together illustrate its evolving urban identity. The H22 City Expo in 2011 highlighted Helsingborg’s focus on urban development and sustainability.

Economy and transport revolve around the port, logistics, and regional connectivity. Helsingborg provides rail and road links to Malmö, Lund, and other parts of Skåne, and maintains ferry connections to Helsingør in Denmark. The city hosts educational institutions with ties to Lund University and serves as a regional healthcare center, while also supporting a local sports culture, including the football club Helsingborgs IF.