Historic Relocation of Kiruna Church Underway with Royal Attention
Kiruna Church's historic relocation event begins with royal guests and extensive media coverage.
Key Points
- • Kiruna Church is being relocated as part of city transformation due to mining activities.
- • The church weighs 672 tons and is moved on a specialized trailer with 224 wheels.
- • King Carl Gustaf is attending the relocation event, which includes public festivities.
- • The move is managed by Veidekke and executed by the Dutch company Mammoet.
The relocation of Kiruna Church, a monumental project in response to the city’s transformation due to mining operations, commenced on August 19, 2025, and is set to conclude today. The move, which involves a two-day event, highlights the significant urban change as part of LKAB's mining activities. The church is being transported from the old town center to a new location approximately five kilometers away. King Carl Gustaf and other dignitaries, including Governor Lotta Finstorp, are present to mark this historic occasion.
The operation, managed by contractor Veidekke and executed by the Dutch specialist Mammoet, involves moving a gargantuan 672-ton church on a trailer with 224 wheels. This complex task is being closely monitored by around 40 media outlets, offering live coverage from SVT and LKAB. Davide Andreani, head of European projects at Mammoet, noted this is their third religious building transportation, following previous successful relocations of a church in Germany and a mosque in Saudi Arabia.
Activities during the move include a church service in a large tent, attended by the King, and a world record attempt for church coffee where the King will serve the first cup. The actual transportation started early this morning and includes strategic stops and public engagement, allowing Kiruna residents and visitors to witness this unique event. The church is expected to arrive at its new destination between 3 PM and 5 PM today, with a celebratory performance by singer Carola scheduled for later in the afternoon.
This relocation symbolizes not just the physical movement of a building but also the broader impact of mining on urban development in Kiruna as the city adapts to the challenges posed by ongoing mining operations.