Why Is a Whole Wooden Church Being Moved Across the City?

This week, Kiruna, a town in Swedish Lapland, is the focus of a grand spectacle as the state-owned mining company LKAB moves the town centre due to the expansion of its underground mine. The event features Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and musical performances, including the anticipated Eurovision entry by KAJ, despite concerns from local Sami reindeer herders about potential impacts on migration routes. This planned relocation, which has been in progress since 2004, involves moving buildings safely away from the mine's reach.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The relocation of Kiruna's town centre is a response to mining activities threatening infrastructure.
• King Carl XVI Gustaf's participation highlights the event's significance.
• Concerns from Sami herders reflect the tension between development and traditional livelihoods.
• 25 buildings have already been moved, with the church being the most challenging due to its size.
• The relocation project has been ongoing since 2004, indicating long-term planning and community impact.

The Context of Kiruna's Relocation

Kiruna, located in the northernmost part of Sweden, is renowned for its breathtaking natural phenomena, such as the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights. These attractions draw a steady stream of visitors to the region throughout the year. However, the town's existence has been jeopardised by the expansion of LKAB's iron ore mine, which lies beneath the town's foundations.

A History of Ground Shifts

The decision to relocate Kiruna's town centre was not made lightly. Since 2004, as mining operations intensified, signs of structural instability became apparent. Residents reported cracks in buildings and roads, prompting local authorities to act. The need to safeguard the town from subsidence led to the ambitious plan to shift the town centre to a safer location approximately 3 km east of the original site.

Moving the Town: The Logistics

To date, 25 buildings have been successfully relocated. This includes residential homes, commercial properties, and significant landmarks, such as the Kiruna Church. Weighing 741 tonnes and measuring 40 metres across, the church's relocation was particularly complex. Engineers had to dismantle parts of existing infrastructure, including a viaduct, to facilitate its movement.

Community and Cultural Impact

The relocation has sparked mixed reactions among residents and local stakeholders. While many acknowledge the necessity due to safety concerns, some locals feel a sense of loss and worry about the implications for their community's identity. Lars-Marcus Kuhmunen, chairman of a Sami reindeer herding organisation, voices particular concerns regarding environmental impacts. He argues that LKAB's mining expansion could disrupt traditional reindeer migration routes, adversely affecting the livelihoods of Sami herders.

The Role of Heritage and Tradition

The Sami community has a deep-rooted connection to the land and its natural rhythms, which are intricately tied to their way of life. The potential disruption to reindeer herding routes poses a significant cultural threat, as these migratory paths have been followed for generations. The tension between industrial development and traditional practices highlights a broader issue facing many indigenous communities worldwide.

Celebrating the Transition: A Media Spectacle

Amidst the serious undertones of the relocation project, the event has been crafted into a media spectacle. The presence of King Carl XVI Gustaf lends royal gravitas to the proceedings, while performances by artists like KAJ, Sweden's entry for the Eurovision 2025 contest, add a celebratory flair. This blend of tradition and modernity aims to unite the community and attract national attention to Kiruna's unique situation.

Challenges Ahead

While the spectacle showcases a moment of pride, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges Kiruna faces. The ongoing mine expansion will continue to pose risks, and the successful relocation of buildings does not erase the concerns voiced by the Sami people. Balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation will be critical as Kiruna navigates this transition.

The Future of Kiruna

Looking ahead, the future of Kiruna hinges on careful planning and dialogue among stakeholders. The successful relocation of the town centre is just one aspect of a more extensive strategy to ensure the town's sustainability. Ongoing discussions will be essential to address the concerns of the Sami community and other local residents.

What Does This Mean for Residents?

For Kiruna's residents, the move signifies both a new beginning and a bittersweet farewell to their original town centre. It represents resilience in the face of change, highlighting the community's adaptability and commitment to preserving its heritage. The hope is that, despite the upheaval, Kiruna can emerge stronger and more cohesive.

FAQs

Why is Kiruna moving its town centre?

The relocation of Kiruna's town centre is primarily due to the expansion of LKAB's iron ore mine, which has caused structural damage to buildings and roads. To prevent further damage and ensure safety, authorities decided to move the town approximately 3 km east.

How many buildings have been moved so far?

As of now, 25 buildings have been relocated from Kiruna's original town centre, with efforts ongoing to move the remaining structures, including the historic church.

What are the concerns of the Sami community?

The Sami community, particularly reindeer herders, have raised concerns about the potential impact of mining activities on traditional reindeer migration routes, threatening their livelihoods and cultural practices.

What role does the Swedish monarchy play in this event?

King Carl XVI Gustaf's participation in the relocation event underscores its significance, highlighting the importance of Kiruna's cultural heritage and the challenges it faces due to industrial expansion.

How is the church being relocated?

The Kiruna Church, weighing 741 tonnes, is being relocated using specially designed equipment. Engineers have widened roads and dismantled a viaduct to facilitate its movement to a safer location.

What happens next for Kiruna?

Kiruna will continue to focus on the safe relocation of remaining buildings while engaging in discussions with stakeholders to address environmental and cultural concerns related to mining activities.

As Kiruna navigates this significant transition, it raises questions about the balance between heritage and progress. How will the town ensure its cultural identity remains intact while adapting to new realities? #Kiruna #SamiCulture #MiningImpact