Town's church on the move due to landslide risk
In the heart of Kiruna, Sweden's northernmost city, a remarkable transformation is underway. The city, home to one of the world's biggest underground iron ore mines, is being relocated several kilometres eastward to safer ground, and at the centre of it all is the Kiruna kyrka.
Built in 1912, the Kiruna kyrka is a symbol of the city and was voted the most beautiful building in Sweden in 2001. Combining influences from Norwegian stave churches and the indigenous Sami Koters, the church stands in the traditional settlement area of the Sami people. With dimensions of approximately 40 meters wide and 40 meters long, the Kiruna kyrka weighs a substantial 672 tonnes.
The Kiruna kyrka is not the first building in Kiruna to be moved. The large underground iron ore mine beneath the city's town centre is causing ground shifts and subsidence that threaten the city's buildings and infrastructure, making relocation necessary. Officially known as the "Great Church Move," the project is being led by Kjell Olovsson, who is satisfied with the progress so far.
The mining company LKAB, which operates the mine, is funding this multibillion-dollar, multi-decade operation. The relocation of about 3,000 homes and major landmarks, including the Kiruna Church, is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s. The historic wooden church in Kiruna is being moved a few kilometres to the east, with the completion of the church's move scheduled for Wednesday.
The relocation of Kiruna is a direct response to the destabilizing effects of the massive iron ore mine beneath it, requiring innovative urban planning and engineering to safeguard the community. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has commented on the church's relocation, stating it symbolizes respect for shared cultural heritage and the importance of Sweden's mining industry.
The project balances preserving the city's cultural heritage and residents' lives with accommodating the mine's economic importance. As part of this effort, a Sami choir and the fun band KAJ, who represented Sweden at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, are scheduled to perform in Kiruna. King Carl XVI. Gustaf is also expected to attend the event in Kiruna.
The church's move is being broadcast live by Swedish television, providing a unique opportunity for the public to witness this historic event. Around 6,000 residents of Kiruna will be relocated, which is about a third of the city's population. The relocation of Kiruna is expected to be completed by 2035, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for this Swedish city.
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