Kiruna city is being moved gradually, as a result of LKAB's mining and the crack formation in the ground that it causes. The church move is the most spectacular part of the city transformation and is being covered by 40 Swedish and foreign media companies. SVT broadcasts live and LKAB live streams. LKAB is also hosting the event The Great Church Move with interviews, music and other entertainment. Kiruna residents and visitors can also follow the move from special locations along the way.
Here are some milestones during the moving days:
Moving day 1, August 19:
At 07.55, the church and its route are blessed by Lena Tjärnberg, vicar of Kiruna parish, and Åsa Nyström, bishop of Luleå diocese.
Five minutes later, 8.00, the move begins from Gruvvägen 2. Speed: 500 meters per hour.
The first moving pass lasts until around 11, when the transport stops for a one-hour lunch break at the intersection of Hjalmar Lundbohmsvägen – Silfwerbrandsgatan.
The afternoon's moving pass lasts until around 17.30.
At 18.00, KAJ performs on the main stage at Stadshustorget
Moving day 2, August 20:
At 8.00, the moving procession starts rolling again.
Royal visit: At 10.40, King Carl Gustaf and Norrbotten's Governor Lotta Finstorp arrive at the church where it is located during its journey.
Around 12.00: The church passes Lastvägen.
At 13.00, the king and governor attend a church service in a church tent (a large tent) on Svarta Björns gata in the new center. Then (13.30) an attempt is made to set a world record for church coffee, where the king takes the first cup.
Between 15 and 17, the church is expected to reach its new address. The king visits the final destination.
At 18: Carola performs on the main stage at Stadshustorget.
