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Kiruna, located in northern Sweden, is undergoing one of the world’s most spectacular urban transformations — the entire city center is being relocated approximately three kilometers to the east. This unprecedented project has drawn the attention of urban planners, researchers, and tourists from around the globe.
Why is Kiruna being relocated?
Since the early 1900s, Kiruna has been a hub for iron ore mining, primarily through the Kiirunavaara mine operated by state-owned LKAB. The ore is extracted through underground blasting, which has gradually caused the ground above to shift. To protect infrastructure and residents — and enable continued mining — a decision was made in 2004 to move much of the city center.
This is not a disaster response, but a carefully planned long-term initiative combining industrial development with urban renewal and public safety.
How is the move carried out?
The transformation is being conducted in several phases, including:
Relocation of over 30 historically significant buildings, including the iconic Kiruna Church (planned for 2025–2026)
Construction of around 3,000 new homes
Development of a new city center with a town hall, library, hotel, shops, and restaurants
New parks, public squares, and pedestrian areas adapted to Arctic conditions
Ongoing dialogue with residents and Sámi representatives to ensure identity and inclusion
Some buildings are dismantled and transported, others are rebuilt in a modern form that honors the original design.
What happens to the old Kiruna?
The original city is being gradually decommissioned. Vacated areas are transformed into a Mine City Park — a green buffer between the mine and the new center. Some buildings are preserved as cultural landmarks, while others are removed. It’s a rare urban landscape where traces of both past and future meet.
How are residents affected?
About 6,000 people are directly impacted. Homes are replaced, financial compensation is provided, and new housing is built. While emotionally challenging, many locals express pride and optimism about the transition. Leaving familiar neighborhoods and schools is not easy — but many see it as an opportunity to shape the future of their city.
What can visitors experience?
The urban transformation has become a living attraction. Visitors can:
Explore the Kiruna Town Hall (“Kristallen”), an award-winning symbol of the new city
Join a guided walking tour to learn about the architecture, history, and social changes
Visit LKAB’s Mine Tour, a unique journey into the world’s largest underground iron ore mine
Discover exhibitions about the city move at Kiruna Folkets Hus or the local Art Museum
Photograph the contrast between old wooden houses and the sleek lines of the new city
Want to book a guided tour?
Ask at your hotel reception or visit kirunalapland.se for more information.
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