A look at Staffanstorp takes you far back in time: during the Iron Age, more than a thousand years ago, Uppåkra was a center of power where politics, religion and trade came together. The archaeological site covers 40 hectares. This means the focus is not just on a single find, but on the history of a place where different aspects of life converged.
Archaeological traces and early history
Gullåkra mosse also tells a story of the distant past. In prehistoric times, the wetland was sacred and served as a sacrificial site in the area. A bronze lur found there in the 1840s is one of the oldest metal instruments in the Nordic countries. The find site and the instrument give the history of the bog a tangible archaeological dimension.
The burial ground at Önsvala offers another glimpse into the Iron Age. It was used for almost 500 years. The graves date mainly from the 5th, 7th and 11th centuries; extensive finds of pottery and metal have also been made. The span of time and variety of finds make Önsvala a chapter in its own right, alongside Uppåkra’s history as a center of power.
Wetland landscapes and paths between fields
Vallby mosse is Staffanstorp Municipality’s first nature reserve and also an important resting and breeding site for birds, including ducks. Its landscape formed in a former glacial kettle hole: it later filled with peat and was subsequently inundated. The geology and birdlife together shape the character of this protected area.
At the Beträdor, the focus is on getting around between the fields. A 13-kilometer walking trail is open to the public; along the field edges, visitors may walk, jog or ride horses. Most Beträdor are located between Tottarp and Djurslöv. This lets you choose how to use the paths based on your plans, whether on foot, jogging or on horseback.
Cycling also has a regional connection: the Staffanstorp–Eslöv section of Cykelleden Skåne starts in Staffanstorp. It links cycling through urban areas and agricultural landscapes with numerous castles and manor houses. This brings different ways of getting around together: a walking trail between fields and a cycling route whose description brings urban and agricultural landscapes together.
Art, swimming and activities
Staffanstorps konsthall is located in the central Medborgarhuset. It presents inspiring art and a range of events. Tours of exhibitions, workshops and a creative studio are available to the public and schools. The cultural offering combines exhibition visits with opportunities to get creative yourself.
Bråhögsbadet is the municipal swimming facility in central Staffanstorp and offers a variety of activities for the whole family. Its offerings are seasonal: in winter, there are indoor pools; in summer, an outdoor pool. If you’re planning to visit the swimming facility, check its current operating schedule before you go.
Churches and craft heritage
The churches also reflect different historical periods. Tottarps kyrka dates from the 12th century and is open in summer and in connection with activities at the church. The nave of Nevishögs kyrka also dates from the 12th century; its origins are probably Romanesque. Särslövs kyrka, meanwhile, dates from the 13th century. The three dates offer a brief comparison of their building histories without assigning the sites to just one period.
Nevishög is also home to Nevishögs smedja, a well-preserved, fully operational village smithy from the early 19th century that is well worth a visit. It brings the region’s craft heritage into focus and complements the archaeological and ecclesiastical traces with an example of rural blacksmithing.
Planning your trip
Regional bus 166 runs from Lund to the Rådhuset and Storgatan stops. From Malmö, regional buses 174 and 172 run to the Storgatan stop. Check the timetables before departure, as bus services can change. When planning your trip, it’s also worth taking into account the seasonal opening hours of Tottarps kyrka and the operating schedule of Bråhögsbadet.
Discover more destinations: Staffanstorp, Eslöv, Tomelilla, Kristianstad, Höganäs, Båstad, Åstorp, Simrishamn.
Back to the main travel overview: Skåne.
