Södra Sofielund

Why was Södra Sofielund once jokingly called “Svinaryssland”? Here in Södra Sofielund, this district south of Lönngatan, the echoes of that nickname, meaning “Pig Russia,” still linger. It speaks to a bygone era, a time when pigs were common in yards and the area felt as remote as Russia itself. Today, Södra Sofielund tells a different story. This vibrant neighborhood, nestled within Malmö’s Södra Innerstaden borough, has a rich history intertwined with the city’s growth. Originally part of Västra Skrävlinge landskommun, Södra Sofielund became part of Malmö in 1911. This area’s story begins much earlier, however. The land belonged to the Skabersjö estate, dating back to the 13th century. In 1786, Tage Thott, the governor of the county, acquired the estate. Just a few years later, in 1792, Hans Bauert purchased a property within the estate and named it Sophielund after his wife, Sophia Charlotta af Trolle. He built extensively and even created a park where Sevedsplan now stands. He held the property until his death in 1802. By the mid-1800s, parts of the Sofielundsgården were sold off for private homes. Interestingly, the main building Bauert purchased remained until 1952. Södra Sofielund began to be developed in 1879, close to Malmö’s city limits and conveniently near the Malmö-Ystad railway line. The emerging industries needed workers, drawing many to this new community. The influx of people and industries led to rapid development. In 1903, plans were drafted for a church and market hall. However, these plans were put on hold until 1911, the year Södra Sofielund officially became a part of Malmö. The incorporation brought changes to street and block names, reshaping the identity of the area. By 1930, a new city plan spurred further industrialization east of Lantmannagatan and the construction of functionalist buildings near Nobeltorget. By 1947, Södra Sofielund was nearly complete, evolving into the district we see today. Within Södra Sofielund lies “Gamla Sofielund” (Old Södra Sofielund), a charming area with small-scale, picturesque buildings from the turn of the 20th century. About 120 houses with unique character and lush gardens line the streets, alongside smaller apartment buildings and small industries. Tucked away are music studios where even international artists like Tom Jones have recorded. He collaborated with Nina Persson of the Cardigans in one of these very studios. From “Svinaryssland” to a vibrant part of Malmö, Södra Sofielund’s story is a testament to its resilience and the enduring spirit of its community.