The Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most cherished buildings, will undergo a historic relocation on 19-20 August 2025, an event that has garnered global attention. This move is an integral part of the urban transformation of Kiruna, driven by mining operations in the region. The church and its bell tower are being moved to avoid the impacts of LKAB’s iron ore mining, which has affected the old town center where the church is currently situated.
The relocation will be carried out over two days and will be livestreamed, offering the public an opportunity to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event. Various activities and events will be organized to make the occasion even more special, marking a heartfelt farewell to the church’s original location.
A Historic Move for Kiruna
Kiruna Church, known for its cultural and historical significance, is set to be the largest building moved as part of the urban transformation that began more than 20 years ago. 23 other cultural buildings have already been relocated as part of this massive project, which is designed to ensure that the town can continue to function safely and efficiently despite the growing mining activities in the area.
Stefan Holmblad Johansson, the project manager for the church relocation, emphasizes the importance of this move, stating, “We want to create something that makes everyone feel included and that serves as a heartfelt farewell to the church’s original location.”
This unique event has not only captivated the local community but has also attracted attention from around the world, symbolizing the balance between cultural preservation and urban development.
Preserving Cultural Value
The church relocation is being approached with the utmost care to preserve its cultural and historical value. Thorough examinations have been conducted to ensure that all elements, including the altarpiece and organ, are moved with the highest level of precision and care.
Weighing 600 metric tons and measuring approximately 40 meters in width, the church will be moved in its entirety. It will be loaded onto a special trailer for the journey, which will span around 5 kilometers. The path will be carefully prepared, with roads widened over the past year to accommodate the massive structure.
Collaboration with the Community
The new location for Kiruna Church has been carefully chosen in close consultation with the local parish, municipality, and the County Administrative Board. This thoughtful planning ensures that the church will be placed in a cohesive setting between the new town center and the cemetery, with additional buildings such as the parish hall also being relocated.
Lena Tjärnberg, vicar of the Kiruna parish, commented, “It feels significant and wonderful that the church will be moving to its new location and coming home. We have had a good dialogue with LKAB and the municipality, and now we look forward to reopening the church and having a vibrant parish life in the new location.”
The Role of Veidekke in the Relocation
The construction company Veidekke has been entrusted with the task of relocating the church and its bell tower. In addition to the relocation itself, Veidekke is responsible for preparing the relocation route, laying the necessary foundations for the church at its new site, and restoring the original site.
Mathias Rönnholm, regional manager of Veidekke Anläggning Nord, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “It’s a very inspiring and honorable task to take care of these buildings that are so dear to everyone’s hearts. And it’s exciting that the actual moving days are getting closer.”
A Momentous Event for Sweden
This relocation is a momentous event not only for Kiruna but for all of Sweden. Mats Taaveniku, the Chairman of the Municipal Council in Kiruna, noted, “Moving the Kiruna Church, a building of such dignity, is a historic event both for Kiruna and for the entire country. It has always been a safe haven and a beautiful structure that we are all proud of.”
The church’s relocation represents both the preservation of cultural heritage and the necessity of adapting to modern needs. With LKAB's mining operations progressing, this urban transformation is essential for the continued growth of the town.
Looking to the Future
Once the church is relocated, there will be significant work involved in restoring the structure and establishing it in its new location. The bell tower and church will be carefully reassembled, ensuring that it remains a vital part of Kiruna's cultural fabric.
The relocation is not just about moving a historic building; it represents the community’s resilience and ability to adapt to change while preserving its heritage. The Kiruna Church will continue to serve as a symbol of unity and faith for generations to come.
Weather Considerations
While the relocation process is carefully planned, it is important to note that weather conditions could affect the exact timing of the move. LKAB and the relocation team will monitor conditions closely to ensure the safe and efficient transport of the church.
Key Takeaways:
• Kiruna Church will be relocated on 19-20 August 2025, due to the impact of mining activities in the area.
• The church, which weighs 600 metric tons and is 40 meters wide, will be moved 5 kilometers to its new location.
• Veidekke, a construction company, is responsible for the relocation, including preparing the new foundation and restoring the original site.
• The church’s new location will be between the cemetery and the new town center, ensuring a cohesive setting for the community.
• The move will be livestreamed, allowing the public to follow the event and witness this historic relocation.
• Weather conditions may influence the exact timing of the move, but all efforts are being made to ensure a safe process.
• This relocation is a part of Kiruna’s urban transformation, which has been ongoing for over 20 years to adapt to the impact of LKAB’s mining operations.
• LKAB and local authorities are committed to preserving the cultural heritage of Kiruna while supporting the town’s growth.
