Welcome to Kiruna, where we’ll explore the evolution of our City Hall! Originally built in 1963, the Original City Hall, designed by Artur von Schmalensee, showcased stunning modernist architecture with its iconic bell tower. It was celebrated as Sweden’s most beautiful public building and became a protected historic landmark. However, due to ground destabilization from the nearby LKAB mine, it closed in 2018, though its beloved clock tower was preserved. We now have the New City Hall, “Kristallen,” designed by Danish firm Henning Larsen. Officially opened by King Carl XVI Gustaf on November 22, 2018, its striking design reflects our mining heritage and community spirit, embodying both resilience and beauty in Kiruna’s new center. Enjoy the tour!

Welcome to Kiruna, a city on the move! We’re relocating our entire urban center three kilometers east due to ground deformations caused by extensive underground iron ore mining. This transformation is not just about safety; it’s about preserving our rich history. Founded in 1900 by Hjalmar Lundbohm, Kiruna was designed with climate adaptation in mind, thanks to urban planner P.O. Hallman. For over a century, our old city center thrived as a close-knit community deeply connected to the iron ore industry. In 2004, signs of cracking and sinking prompted a crucial decision: relocate or close the mine. By 2018, the striking town hall, Kristallen (“The Crystal”), marked the new center’s beginning, officially opened on September 1, 2022. Instead of demolishing our heritage, we’re relocating over 30 historic buildings, including the iconic 1,200-ton Kiruna Church. If you’re curious about travel tips or how we’re preserving our history, just ask!

We will enter the mining founders museum to look at and talk about the history and foundation of Kirun city

Welcome to Kiruna, a city rich in history and culture! As we explore, we’ll discover the remarkable journey of the Kiruna Church, which has been relocated to our vibrant new city and is currently undergoing restoration. If the church is open during our tour, we’ll step inside to delve into its significance and learn how it has shaped the identity of Kiruna. Should the church be closed, fear not! We’ll take a scenic detour to Jukkasjärvi Village, where we’ll visit the enchanting old church that has stood for over 400 years. This historic gem inspired the architectural style of Kiruna’s older buildings, offering a glimpse into the past that continues to influence our present. Join us for an unforgettable experience as we uncover the stories that define our city!

If the church in Kiruna city is still closed during the tour date, we will visit the church in Jukkasjärvi Welcome to Jukkasjärvi Church, the oldest preserved wooden church in Swedish Lapland, dating back to 1607-1608! This historical gem was originally built at a Sámi market, serving as a spiritual home for the local priest and his family. Over the years, the church has seen significant changes, including a major rebuilding in 1726 and the addition of a bell tower in the 1740s. By 1785, the organ loft was completed, finalizing its iconic structure. A fascinating restoration in 1907 revealed 87 ancient graves beneath the wooden floor. Architecturally unique, this block-pillar church (stolpkyrka) showcases a striking red exterior, blending early Swedish Lutheran design with rich Sámi and Torneedalian artwork inside. Don’t miss the stunning teak triptych altarpiece, honoring local heritage!