Ramlösa is a district in the southern part of Helsingborg. For most people, it is strongly associated with Ramlösa Spa and, in particular, its mineral water, which has long been famous both nationally and internationally. The streets in this district reference its history, featuring names such as Surbrunnsgatan, Källgatan and Södra Brunnsvägen. Other streets, such as Döbeliusvägen, Stobaeusgatan, Rosenschöldsgatan and Ungegatan, have been named after spa physicians.

It was Johan Jacob Döbelius who, in the late 17^th century, discovered that Ramlösa spring water had positive effects on the health of Charles XII’s soldiers. He was so impressed by the properties of the water in Ramlösa that, on 17 June, 1707, he opened a spa.

Eventually, the drinking of spring water became extremely popular. The prescribed dosage for sufferers of various diseases was 17 glasses of water on an empty stomach.

In the late 19^th century, an additional spring was discovered which provided alkaline water rich in minerals and salts. With the addition of carbonic acid, Ramlösa mineral water was born. Up until 1973, Ramlösa was a health resort to which people travelled in order to be cured by its water.

Bergman’s film A Lesson in Love was partly shot in Ramlösa. It is possible that he found these locations while visiting Ramlösa during his time at the Helsingborg City Theatre (1944-1946). Alternatively, his relationship with the water might have been key: Bergman had his own special connection with Ramlösa in that its carbonated water was, over many years, his constant companion – until one day, that is, when he wrote a note to his housekeeper Anita Haglöf saying:

‘Hi Anita! The doctor says that I have a potassium deficiency and can’t drink Ramlösa any more since it causes dehydration. From now on, I have to stick to Imsdal! Your friend, Ingmar. Ramlösa addict.’