Meet your guide in Kiruna and set off on a journey through the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Begin by visiting Luossavaara, a 724-meter mountain that was once a thriving iron ore site. Learn about its transformation into a popular destination for winter sports and hiking, and hear about its significance to the Sámi people.
Old and New Kiruna City
Welcome to Kiruna: A Journey Through Time
Ancient Roots
Step back in time as we explore the rich history of Kiruna, a land cherished by the Sámi people for over 6,000 years. Here, the expansive reindeer grazing grounds and the iron-rich mountains of Kiirunavaara and Luossavaara have shaped a unique cultural heritage.
Foundation of a Modern Town
In 1900, Hjalmar Lundbohm, the first manager of the mining company LKAB, laid the foundations for modern Kiruna. This bustling town was built to accommodate miners, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history.
Innovative Design
Marvel at the visionary urban planning of P.O. Hallman, who designed Sweden's first climate-adapted city plan. Discover how buildings were strategically positioned to shield against the harsh Arctic winds, creating a unique architectural landscape.
Economic Growth
Experience the transformation of Kiruna into an economic powerhouse with the completion of the Iron Ore Line railway. This vital connection to ice-free ports in Norway and Sweden solidified the town's importance in the mining industry.
A Shift in the Landscape (2004)
In 2004, the town faced a significant challenge as decades of underground mining led to ground instability, causing rifts and sinkholes. Rather than abandoning the vital mine, the municipal council made a bold decision: to relocate the town entirely.
The Rise of New Kiruna
Vision for the Future
In 2009, design firm White Arkitekter won the competition to create a sustainable Arctic city, establishing a new master plan just three kilometers to the east of the original town.
Heritage Relocation
As we explore the new area, learn about the efforts to preserve Kiruna's cultural heritage. Over 30 significant buildings, including the iconic 1,200-ton wooden Kiruna Church, are being carefully transported or rebuilt in this new eastern zone.
Looking Ahead
By 2035, the old city center will be transformed into open parkland, marking a new era as mining advances. Join us on this remarkable journey through Kiruna's past, present, and future, where innovation meets tradition in the heart of the Arctic.
Finally, visit Hjalmar Lundbohmsgården, the second-oldest structure in Kiruna. Learn about its relocation to Luossavaara in 2017 to protect it from ground deformations tied to mining expansion, and hear about its historical significance as a cultural milestone representing early industrial development and society building in northern Sweden.
