The relocation of Kiruna Church, a 600-ton structure, has commenced, marking a significant event in Sweden's history. The church is being moved five kilometers to a new city center due to the expansion of the iron ore mine. The move involves complex logistics, including a specially prepared route and a human barrier for protection. Despite risks like potential damage to the church's interior and weather challenges, the event has attracted a large crowd, highlighting its cultural importance.
Historic Move: Kiruna Church Relocation Begins
Historic Move: Kiruna Church Relocation Begins
Today marks the beginning of the relocation of Kiruna Church. The 600-ton building is being transported five kilometers to its new location in the city center.
The need to move large parts of Kiruna became apparent in 2004 when it was clear that the expansion of the iron ore mine would make the old city center unsustainable.
Several buildings have since been moved to Kiruna's new center. However, the church, which began its move shortly after 8 a.m. on Tuesday, is the largest structure transported so far. It weighs approximately 600 tons and measures about 40 by 40 meters.
Before the journey began, the church was blessed by Lena Tjärnberg, the vicar of Kiruna parish, and Åsa Nyström, the bishop of Luleå diocese.
"Bless the church and bless all the people for whom the church is significant," said Åsa Nyström before the hymn "Beautiful is the Earth" was performed.
In SVT's broadcast from Kiruna, expert Roy Griph stated that the church is the widest and tallest object ever transported on public roads in Sweden. The transport vehicle has a total of 224 wheels.
The church is being moved over a distance of about five kilometers, and the road has been specially prepared. According to TT, viaducts have been demolished to make way for the transport, which will proceed at a speed of approximately 0.5 kilometers per hour.
Despite the slow pace, TV images show a large crowd gathered to watch the move.
Risks: Downpours and Damage
The project involves several significant risks. Magnus Utsi, the site manager for the move, told the magazine Byggnadsarbetaren about potential issues.
One concern is that objects and furnishings inside the church, including a large altarpiece painted by Prince Eugen, could be damaged.
"During the move, we use an advanced measurement system throughout the church that alerts us immediately if the altarpiece starts to move in any way," Magnus Utsi told Byggnadsarbetaren.
Heavy rainfall also poses a risk. If the road softens, the entire load could tilt excessively.
"We have had and will have many meetings with SMHI. The closer we get to the move, the more detailed and accurate the forecast becomes. We also have some critical curves where it will be challenging to keep the entire transport on a clear path," says Magnus Utsi.
"Some Eccentric Seeking TV Attention"
Finally, there is the human factor. According to Magnus Utsi, there will be "cosmically many people" in Kiruna to watch the move.
To protect the church, a "human wall" of 40 people will accompany the transport. Security guards will also be present.
"This church move is a rigorous affair, it has become quite a hype, and you never know if there's some eccentric who wants to be seen on TV," says Magnus Utsi.
The move is planned to take two days. Once the church has reached its new location, an inaugural concert featuring Carola will be held.