The Kiruna Church is being moved 5km east due to the threat posed by the world's largest underground iron-ore mine. This relocation, planned since 2004, is necessary as mine expansion has caused structural damage in the town. Thousands have gathered to witness the church's move, which is being managed by LKAB, the state-owned mining company. However, concerns arise from the Sami community regarding potential negative impacts on reindeer migration routes due to mining operations. The event features various performances and has attracted attention from Swedish royalty.
The Kiruna Church and its belfry are being moved east along a 5km route as part of Kiruna's relocation due to the encroaching underground mine.
This week's move has turned into a highly choreographed media spectacle, run by LKAB, and has attracted thousands of visitors to Kiruna.
Lars-Marcus Kuhmunen expressed concerns that LKAB's new mining plans could disrupt reindeer migration routes, threatening the Sami herders' livelihoods.
The relocation of Kiruna's town center, including the church, has been planned since 2004 due to expanding mine operations causing dangerous structural issues.
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