Mammoet has completed the safe relocation of the Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most significant architectural landmarks, in a remarkable two-day operation that combined precision engineering, extensive planning, and cultural preservation.

Built in the early 1900s and once voted Sweden’s most beautiful building, the vast wooden church - among the largest of its kind in the country - was moved in its entirety to make way for the expansion of the LKAB iron ore mine. The relocation formed part of a wider project to rebuild Kiruna’s city centre, situated 5km from the original site.

Commissioned by Veidekke and LKAB, Mammoet was tasked with transporting the 713-tonne structure intact. Over 1,000 hours of engineering and modelling went into planning the move, which was nicknamed “The Great Church Walk”. The operation attracted thousands of spectators, including the King of Sweden, eager to witness the historic event.

The church was carefully jacked up 1.3 metres and set onto steel beams supported by two trains of 28 axle lines of Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs). A bespoke monitoring system ensured the structure remained stable, with tilt limited to just 7.5 cm throughout the journey. Civil works, including road widening and strengthening, were carried out in advance, with trial runs simulating the full axle load.

Timed for August to avoid harsh weather, the relocation took place over daylight hours on 19–20 August. The church was then gently lowered onto new foundations at its destination, preserving its integrity for future generations. Mammoet will also relocate the church’s 90-tonne belfry in the coming days.

“This project exemplifies the importance of detailed planning in delivering unique and meaningful moves,” said William Soeters, Project Manager at Mammoet. “We’re proud to safeguard such an iconic part of Sweden’s heritage.”

Photo: Moved in its entirety, the church was carefully jacked up 1.3 metres and set into steel beams.