Mammoet Completes Historic Relocation of Kiruna Church
30 Second Takeaway
Mammoet has completed the safe relocation of Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most significant architectural landmarks, transporting the 713-tonne wooden structure over five kilometres to a new city centre. The two-day operation followed more than 1,000 hours of planning and engineering and demonstrated the use of precision lifting, SPMTs, and advanced monitoring to protect a fragile historic structure.
Landmark Move in Northern Sweden
Mammoet has successfully completed the relocation of Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most treasured historic buildings, in a carefully executed two-day operation. The move marks a defining moment for the town of Kiruna and highlights the role of heavy lift engineering in preserving cultural heritage.
Built in the early 20th century and once voted Sweden’s most beautiful building, Kiruna Church is one of the country’s largest wooden structures. Its relocation became necessary due to the expansion of LKAB’s Kiruna mine, which has driven the gradual relocation of parts of the town to a newly developed city centre approximately five kilometres away.
Extensive Planning and Engineering
More Than 1,000 Hours of Preparation
Commissioned by civil engineering firm Veidekke and mining company LKAB, Mammoet was tasked with transporting the church in one piece, a challenge that required more than 1,000 hours of detailed planning and engineering.
The project, known locally as “The Great Church Walk,” attracted widespread attention and was witnessed by thousands of spectators, including the King of Sweden. Preserving the integrity of the fragile wooden structure was a central priority throughout the operation.
To manage the risks, Mammoet worked closely with Veidekke and Swedish wood engineering specialists to model and test the church’s response to lifting and transport. The relocation was scheduled for August, reducing the likelihood of adverse weather conditions that could compromise safety.
Lifting and Transport Operation
SPMTs and Custom Monitoring Systems
The church was jacked up to a height of 1.3 metres and placed onto steel beams supported by two trains of 28 axle lines of Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs).
A custom in-house monitoring system was developed to continuously track the structure’s behaviour during the move. This system ensured that the church remained within strict tolerance limits, allowing a maximum tilt difference of just 7.5 centimetres between sides.
Route Preparation and Execution
Civil Works and Load Testing
The transport route was carefully analysed and prepared in advance. Temporary road widening and ground compaction works were carried out to support the church’s axle loads.
Mammoet advised on the necessary civil works and conducted road tests using SPMTs loaded with counterweights, replicating the church’s load to validate ground conditions and route suitability before the actual move.
The relocation took place during daylight hours on August 19 and 20, with the church arriving safely at its new location at the end of the second day.
Final Positioning and Next Phase
Preserving Kiruna’s Cultural Heritage
Once at the destination site, the SPMTs carefully lowered the church onto its new concrete foundations, completing the main relocation phase.
In the coming days, Mammoet will also relocate the church’s 90-tonne belfry using a different SPMT configuration, further contributing to the preservation of Kiruna’s cultural heritage as the town continues its transformation.
Project Perspective
Engineering Precision for a Historic Structure
William Soeters, Project Manager at Mammoet, highlighted the importance of preparation and collaboration.
“This project exemplifies the importance of detailed engineering and planning in executing unique and meaningful moves. We’re proud to have played a key role in safeguarding this historic building for future generations.”
About Mammoet
Mammoet is a global leader in engineered heavy lifting and transport services, supporting complex infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects worldwide. The company is widely recognised for its expertise in large-scale relocations, SPMT transport, and precision engineering solutions.
Website: https://www.mammoet.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Kiruna Church relocated?
The church was moved due to the expansion of LKAB’s Kiruna mine, which required parts of the town to be relocated to a new city centre.
How heavy was the church?
Kiruna Church weighs approximately 713 tonnes and was transported in one piece.
What equipment was used for the move?
The relocation used two SPMT trains with 28 axle lines each, supported by jacking systems and steel beams.
How long did the relocation take?
The transport operation itself took two days, following more than 1,000 hours of planning.
What additional work remains?
Mammoet will also relocate the church’s 90-tonne belfry in a subsequent operation.
