The South Gate travel guide

Söderport, also known as the South Gate, is one of the iconic medieval gates in the city wall of Visby. Constructed in the late 13th century, Söderport served as a critical entry point to the fortified town, which was a major trading hub in the Hanseatic League. The gate's strategic location underscores its importance in controlling access to the city and defending against invaders.

Throughout the centuries, Söderport has witnessed numerous historical events, including conflicts and sieges. In the Middle Ages, Visby was a prosperous and influential city, and the fortifications, including Söderport, played a vital role in protecting its wealth and residents. The gate’s robust design, featuring a pointed arch and flanking towers, exemplifies medieval military architecture.

Today, Söderport stands as a testament to Visby's rich heritage and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the entire city wall. Visitors can walk through this historic gate and imagine the bustling medieval life that once surrounded it. The preservation of Söderport allows us to appreciate the engineering marvels of the past and the historical significance of Visby as a medieval powerhouse.

Söderport, a prominent gate in the historic town of Visby, Sweden, boasts several unique features that capture the imagination of visitors and history enthusiasts alike. One of its most striking aspects is the well-preserved medieval architecture, which includes intricate stonework and defensive structures that have stood the test of time. The gate's twin towers, with their distinctive conical roofs, create a picturesque and imposing entrance to the town, making it a favorite spot for photographers and artists.

Another notable feature is the beautiful wrought iron gate that serves as a symbolic threshold between the old and new areas of Visby. This gate is adorned with historical motifs and designs that reflect the town's rich heritage. Additionally, Söderport offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the stunning coastline and the lush greenery of the Gotland countryside. These views provide a serene and picturesque backdrop, enhancing the experience of exploring this ancient gateway.

Moreover, Söderport is an integral part of the medieval city wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding to its significance and allure. The gate's location at the southern end of the wall makes it a key point of entry and exit, historically vital for trade and defense. Today, it stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and artistic sensibilities of the medieval period, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in Visby's storied past.

One of the intriguing features of Söderport is its dual-function design, serving both as a fortified gate and a customs checkpoint during medieval times. Remarkably, the gate still retains scars from historical battles, with visible dents from cannonballs and other weapons. Söderport also boasts a unique architectural blend, combining Gothic and Romanesque styles, making it a standout structure among Visby's medieval fortifications. Additionally, the gate's iron-clad doors were once adorned with intricate carvings and symbols to ward off evil spirits, a common medieval practice. During the annual Medieval Week in Visby, Söderport becomes a focal point for reenactments and events, bringing its storied past vividly to life.

Discover The South Gate, a prime feature of Gotland, in the vibrant Gotland Municipality. The South Gate is situated at Söderväg 1, 621 58 Visby, Sweden, just a short distance from Gotland Museum and (Eastern Gate), making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of The South Gate, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Gotland, a city in Sweden rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Gotland travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Söderport in Visby, Sweden, is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with long daylight hours and temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). The warm and sunny weather allows visitors to comfortably stroll through the historic gateway and enjoy the surrounding medieval architecture without the need for heavy clothing.

Another excellent time to visit is during the annual Medieval Week, held in early August. This event transforms Visby into a lively medieval town, complete with reenactments, markets, and performances, providing a unique and immersive experience. Although this period can be busier, the vibrant atmosphere is worth the crowds.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are also ideal. During these times, the weather remains pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner, offering a more peaceful exploration of Söderport. Regardless of when you visit, planning ahead and checking local event calendars will ensure a memorable trip.

The South Gate is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Gotland, Sweden. If you're flying in, Visby Airport is approximately 2.8 miles (4.5 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach The South Gate by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Gotland, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The South Gate, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Söderväg 1, 621 58 Visby, Sweden.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The South Gate!

Upon arriving at Visby Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Gotland.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Gotland.

Choosing the right accommodation near The South Gate from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Gotland can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from The South Gate, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond The South Gate, Gotland boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to park, the top attractions in Gotland offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Gotland is DBW's Botanical Garden, located at Strandgatan, 621 55 Gotland, Sweden. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Stora TORGET 2, 621 56 Visby, Sweden.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Almedalen completes any trip to Gotland. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Birgers gränd 7, 621 56 Visby, Sweden, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Gotland below to discover even more incredible places to explore.