Historic Relocation of Kiruna Church Marks New Chapter for the Community

In a significant and historic event, the 113-year-old Kiruna Church has been successfully relocated to the city's new center, necessitated by ground destabilization due to mining activities. This monumental move, which took place over two days from August 19 to 20, 2025, included royal participation from King Carl XVI Gustaf, who played a central role in the accompanying celebrations and community activities.

The church, weighing an impressive 672 tons, completed its journey after approximately half a kilometer of transport, drawing thousands of spectators and international media coverage. Gunnel Andersson, an 81-year-old local resident, who had witnessed the event, remarked on the emotional significance, noting, "Man kanske blir religiös nu" (One might become religious now) as she appreciated the proximity to the new location.

The relocation was not just about the physical move of the building; it cost over half a billion kronor, according to Stefan Hämäläinen, LKAB's community transformation manager. This financial investment underscores the profound impact of mining operations on the Kiruna community, where authorities have deemed the move necessary for safety and sustainability.

During the relocation ceremonies, which included a church service held in a tent at the new site, King Carl XVI Gustaf partook in a unique world record attempt for church coffee consumption. The king drank the first of 3,187 cups of coffee served during this event, surpassing the previous record of 2,620 cups by the Kalmar diocese set in 2007. Expressing his excitement, the king stated, "It is nice that you can move the church that means so much," reflecting the sentiment of many locals who see the church as a vital community symbol.

As Kiruna continues its transformation, the relocated church is expected to open in its new location by the end of 2026, with complete community relocation projected by 2035. The historic move not only marks a new beginning for Kiruna's spiritual life but also reinforces the resilience of the community in the face of change.