The 'big church move': Swedish town begins to roll historic building 5km
5 days ago
- #Sweden
- #Mining
- #Relocation
- A 672-tonne church in Kiruna, Sweden, is being moved 5km to make way for a mine expansion.
- The move is part of a larger relocation of the entire Arctic town due to ground instability caused by mining.
- The church, designed by Gustaf Wickman, is one of Sweden’s most-loved older buildings.
- The relocation process is expected to take two days, moving at half-a-kilometre per hour.
- Over 10,000 people, including the Swedish king, are expected to witness the event.
- The church will reopen at its new location by the end of next year, with the town's full relocation completed by 2035.
- The move has been described as 'a unique event in world history' by LKAB, the mining company.
- The relocation has faced criticism, particularly from Sámi people concerned about reindeer herding.
- The church's altarpiece and organ have been carefully prepared for the move.
- The belltower will be relocated separately next week.