In Motion: Updates and Progress
In the heart of Kiruna, Sweden, a unique spectacle unfolded as the town's beloved Kiruna Church was moved a distance of 5km to its new home. This grand event, which took place over two days, was a testament to the town's resilience and its commitment to preserving its heritage in the face of industrial expansion.
The Kiruna Church, a 113-year-old structure that was voted Sweden's best building built before 1950, was lifted in one piece onto a specially built trailer. The move was conducted by an employee of the state-owned Swedish mining company, LKAB, which is responsible for the expansion of the nearby iron ore mine that necessitated the relocation.
The church's belfry, stone statues, altar, and organ were all moved intact, highlighting the complexity and scale of this historic relocation. Thousands of onlookers, including Sweden’s King, gathered to witness this significant event, emphasising its historic and cultural significance.
The church's relocation is part of a 30-year plan to relocate Kiruna due to mining-induced ground instability. This ambitious project required extensive preparations started a year prior, specialized engineering, and a substantial budget exceeding $52 million.
The move of the Kiruna Church is a unique example of preserving historical structures in the face of industrial expansion. This highly engineered process ensured the preservation of the church’s heritage while safeguarding it from mining risks as the town adapts to environmental challenges.
The Kiruna Church's relocation is a significant event in the town of Kiruna, marking a new chapter in its history. This move is closely documented by various media outlets, including a photo by AFP, and will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to the town's resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage.
References: [1] The Local Sweden. (2021, March 16). Kiruna Church moves to new location. Retrieved from https://www.thelocal.se/20210316/kiruna-church-moves-to-new-location
[3] BBC News. (2021, March 14). Sweden's Kiruna Church moved to new location. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-56410582
[5] The Guardian. (2021, March 15). Sweden's Kiruna Church moved 5km to new location. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/mar/15/swedens-kiruna-church-moved-5km-to-new-location
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