Visbys

Visbys is a term that may refer to Visby, the well-preserved medieval town on the island of Gotland, Sweden. This article provides a concise overview of Visby.

Visby is located on the northwest coast of Gotland, the largest island in the Baltic Sea. It is Gotland County's seat and the island's largest urban center. The old town, with its cobbled streets and fortified walls, remains the core of contemporary Visby.

Visby began as a 12th-century trading settlement that grew into a major Hanseatic port. Its fortifications—the stone ring wall and towers—were built in the 13th and 14th centuries. The 1361 Battle of Visby is a noted event in its medieval history. After periods of decline, Visby revived as a regional hub and transformed into a popular tourist destination in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Significant architecture and landmarks include the medieval city wall with numerous towers, the central old town with preserved wooden houses, and Visby Cathedral. The town's historic atmosphere and ruins of earlier churches contribute to its reputation as a heritage site.

Today Visby is a major tourist center and service hub for Gotland. The annual Medieval Week in August draws visitors worldwide. The economy relies on tourism, the ferry port connecting Gotland with the Swedish mainland, and Gotland Airport nearby, which provides regular air service to Stockholm and other cities.

Transport and access: The town is linked to the mainland by ferries and by road around Gotland. Gotland Airport serves air traffic to Stockholm and other destinations.