Kiruna’s Historic Church Relocated to Make Way for Mine Expansion

A historic red wooden church, known as Kiruna Kyrka, is set to be relocated from its home in Kiruna, Sweden, on March 5-6, 2024, to facilitate the expansion of Europe’s largest underground iron ore mine. Weighing 672 tonnes, the church will be transported five kilometres (three miles) on remote-controlled flatbed trailers, moving at a pace of half a kilometre per hour. The operation, which begins at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) after a blessing ceremony, has attracted considerable attention, with over 10,000 spectators expected to line the streets of the town, which has a population of around 18,000.

The relocation is part of a larger effort to move Kiruna’s entire town centre due to ground instability caused by mining activities conducted by LKAB. This complex logistical feat has been ongoing for nearly two decades, with the new town centre inaugurated in September 2022. The cost of relocating the church alone is estimated at 500 million kronor (approximately $52 million), covered by LKAB.

Architectural Significance and Historical Context

Designed by Swedish architect Gustaf Wickman, Kiruna Kyrka was completed in 1912 and is regarded as one of Sweden’s most beautiful buildings. The church’s design incorporates elements inspired by the region’s Indigenous Sami culture, particularly in its pews, and features a neo-Gothic exterior with slanted roofs and distinctive windows. The interior combines national romanticism with an Art Nouveau altarpiece, enhancing its cultural significance.

The move of the church, alongside 23 other cultural buildings, is described by LKAB as “a unique event in world history.” Unlike previous relocations of larger structures in industrial areas, this operation takes place through the heart of a small town, adding to its uniqueness. The roads along the route have been widened from nine to 24 metres to accommodate the transport, a process that took over a year to complete.

Logistical Challenges and Community Engagement

“It is with great reverence we have undertaken this project,”

said Stefan Holmblad Johansson, LKAB’s project manager. “This is not just any building; it’s a church.” The structure has undergone extensive examination to safeguard its cultural assets. The altarpiece, painted by Sweden’s Prince Eugen, and the organ with over 2,000 pipes have been carefully wrapped and protected for the journey.

In preparation for the move, the ground around the church has been excavated to allow large beams to be placed underneath for lifting. The entire load, including the church and its supporting beams, will weigh approximately 1,200 tonnes during transport. The belltower, located adjacent to the church, is scheduled to be moved the following week.

Anticipation surrounds the event, with LKAB planning to create a celebratory atmosphere for the community. Crowds can expect snacks, refreshments, and live entertainment as they gather to witness this momentous occasion. Swedish television will broadcast the entire journey live, with 30 cameras positioned along the route, embracing the country’s growing trend of “slow TV.”

As the church embarks on its historic journey, the relocation underscores the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and accommodating industrial growth, a challenge that will continue to shape Kiruna’s future.