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Kiruna Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Kiruna Church was constructed between 1909 and 1912 according to the designs of architect Gustaf Wickman in the Art Nouveau style and is regarded as one of Sweden's most significant wooden buildings. The design of the structure is unique, as its shape is inspired by the traditional lavvu, the tent of the indigenous Sami people, thereby reflecting the local Arctic culture. In 2001, the building was voted by the Swedish public as the most beautiful building in the country erected before 1950. The interior houses valuable works of art, including an altar painting by Prince Eugen and sculptures by Christian Eriksson. Due to massive ground deformations caused by the neighboring iron ore mine, the entire church is scheduled to be transported to a new location in the coming years as part of the city's relocation. The construction is made almost entirely of wood and features intricate carvings on the facades representing spiritual symbols.

Location: Sweden
Top sights: Kiruna krematorium · simhallsbadet · Giron Sámi Theáter

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-13	-13	-9	-4	3	9	13	10	5	-2	-8	-11
Rain mm	35	30	26	35	70	93	128	92	71	48	40	40

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Kiruna Church is usually open to visitors during daytime, unless services are in progress. Admission is typically free, with donations welcome.

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Typical hours

The church typically opens from 10 am to 4 pm, with longer hours in summer. Services are usually held on Sundays, which may limit access.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. Please respect the privacy of worshipers and avoid disruptions.

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Time needed

Allow about 20-30 minutes to view the church and its interior. The exterior with its unique architecture invites a longer stay.

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Combine with

The church is in central Kiruna, so a city stroll is worthwhile. The nearby Kiruna Museum features further insight into local culture.

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Getting there

The church is about a 15-minute walk from Kiruna train station. By car, parking is available in the vicinity.

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Insider tip

Visit the church early in the morning to enjoy the soft light through the windows. The wooden structure is especially impressive from inside.

Geography

Coordinates

67.85190, 20.23310

Facts

Construction period from 1909 to 1912.
Designed by the architect Gustaf Wickman.
Inspired by the traditional Sami tent shape.
Altar painting created by Prince Eugen.
Voted Sweden's most beautiful building in 2001.
Planned for relocation due to mining subsidence.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kiruna<1 km · NWExplore →

Kirunavaara3 km · SWExplore →

Luossavaara3 km · NWExplore →

Icehotel Jukkasjärvi15 km · EExplore →

Svappavaara Iron Ore Mine41 km · SEExplore →

Torneträsk68 km · NWExplore →

Tarfala Valley69 km · WExplore →

Lapporten70 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kiruna Church (7)

Kiruna krematorium

Crematorium in Kiruna, Sweden.

simhallsbadet

Indoor swimming pool in Kiruna.

🌐 kiruna.se🕒 Mo 10:00-20:00; Tu 07:00-20:00; We 07:00-21:00; Th-Fr 07:00-

Giron Sámi Theáter

Theatre in Kiruna, Sweden.

Kiruna gravkapell

Cemetery chapel in Kiruna.

Iron ore cart

Iron ore cart monument in Kiruna.

Kiruna kyrka

Swedish church building in Kiruna.

Luossavaara

Southern mountain in Kiruna, Sweden.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Kiruna Church famous?

It is considered one of Sweden's most beautiful wooden buildings, shaped like a Sami tent (goahti).

Is it true that the church will be moved?

Yes, due to ground deformation from the iron mine, the church will be moved to a new site in the coming years.

When was the church built?

The church was built between 1909 and 1912 and designed by architect Gustaf Wickman.

What color is the church?

The church is painted in a striking Falu red, a traditional Swedish color.

Is entrance free?

Visiting the church is usually free, though donations for maintenance are welcome.

Kiruna Church: where is it located?

Kiruna Church is located in Sweden.

Kiruna Church: what is there to see?

Highlights include Kiruna krematorium, simhallsbadet, Giron Sámi Theáter.

Kiruna Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Kiruna Church: why is it worth visiting?

Kiruna Church was constructed between 1909 and 1912 according to the designs of architect Gustaf Wickman in the Art Nouveau style and is regarded as one of Sweden's most significant wooden buildings.

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