Kiruna, a city located in the far north of Sweden, is currently in the process of being moved. This may seem like a strange concept, but it is actually a necessary step in order to ensure the safety and sustainability of the city’s inhabitants. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the decision to move Kiruna, as well as some of the city’s most interesting and unique facts. From being located within the Arctic Circle, to being home to the largest underground iron ore mine and the Esrange Space Center, Kiruna is a unique destination with a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful natural setting. So buckle up as we take you on a journey to discover why Kiruna is being moved and the many interesting facts about this fascinating city.
Kiruna, a city located in the far north of Sweden, is currently in the process of being moved. This may seem like a strange concept, but it is actually a necessary step in order to ensure the safety and sustainability of the city’s inhabitants. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the decision to move Kiruna, as well as some of the city’s most interesting and unique facts.
The main reason for the relocation of Kiruna is due to the fact that the city is built on top of one of the largest iron ore mines in the world. As the mining operations have continued, the ground beneath the city has begun to shift and become unstable. This has led to concerns about the safety of the city’s residents and infrastructure, as well as the potential for damage to buildings and homes.
In order to address these concerns, the Swedish government has decided to move the entire city of Kiruna approximately 3 kilometers to the east. This will not only ensure the safety of the inhabitants, but it will also allow for the continuation of the mining operations, which are a vital part of the region’s economy. The move is expected to take place over a period of several decades, with the first phase of the relocation set to begin in the early 2020s.
One of the most fascinating facts about Kiruna is that it is located within the Arctic Circle. This means that during the winter months, the city experiences long periods of darkness, with only a few hours of daylight each day. However, during the summer months, the city experiences the opposite, with nearly 24 hours of daylight. This unique location also makes Kiruna a popular destination for viewing the Northern Lights, or Aurora borealis.
Another interesting fact about Kiruna is that it is home to the world’s largest underground iron ore mine, known as the Kiruna mine. The mine is over 3 kilometers deep and stretches out for more than 20 kilometers under the city. It is also the source of the city’s instability and also the reason for the city’s move.
Kiruna is also home to a unique blend of cultures, as it is located in the heart of the Sámi region of Sweden. The Sámi are an indigenous people of Northern Europe, with a rich culture and history. Visitors to Kiruna can learn about the Sámi culture through various museums, cultural centers, and festivals that take place throughout the year.
Kiruna is also home to the Esrange Space Center, which is operated by the Swedish Space Corporation. The center is used for research, education, and space-related activities, such as rocket launches and satellite tracking. It is the only civilian rocket range in Europe, and it has been used for over 50 years.
In conclusion, Kiruna is a unique and fascinating city that is currently facing the challenge of relocation due to the instability caused by the mining operations. Despite this, the city is home to a rich cultural heritage, an incredible natural setting and an important scientific facility. The move will ensure the safety and sustainability of the city and its inhabitants while also allowing for the continuation of the vital mining operations. Kiruna is truly a one-of-a-kind destination, and it is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Arctic culture, mining, and space exploration.