Malm� is thought to have been founded in 1275, as a fortified quay or ferry berth of the Archbishop of Lund, some 20 km to the north-east. It was for centuries Denmark's second biggest city. Its original name was Malmhaug (with alternate spellings), meaning "Gravel pile" or "Ore Hill".
In the 15th century, Malm� became one of Denmark's largest and most frequented cities, reaching a population of approximately 5,000 inhabitants. It became the most important city around the �resund, with the German Hanseatic League frequenting it as a marketplace, notable for its flourishing herring fishing. During that time, the city arms were granted in 1437 by King Eric of Pomerania. It was based on Eric's own arms from Pomerania: an argent with a griffin gules. It gave the griffin's head to Malm�, eventually this extended to the entire province of Scania.
In 1434, a new citadel was constructed at the beach south of the town. This fortress, known today as Malm�hus, did not get its current appearance until the mid-16th century. Several other fortifications were constructed, making Malm� Sweden's most fortified city, but only Malm�hus remains.
Lutheran teachings became popular during the 16th century, and Malm� was one of the first cities in Scandinavia to fully convert (1527�29).
In the 17th century, Malm� and the Scanian region (Sk�neland) came into Swedish possession. This happened following the Treaty of Roskilde, signed in 1658. Fighting was not yet over, however; in June 1677, 14,000 Danish troops laid siege to Malm� for a month, but were unable to conquer the Swedish troops holding it.
By the dawn of the 18th century, Malm� had about 2,300 inhabitants. However, due to the wars of Charles XII of Sweden andbubonic plague epidemics, the population dropped to 1,500 by 1727. The population did not grow much until the modern harbour was constructed by the late 18th century. The city started to expand, and in 1800 had 38,054 inhabitants.
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