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Kirunavaara
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Kirunavaara is home to the world's largest and most technologically advanced underground iron ore mine, defining the identity of Kiruna in northern Sweden. Industrial mining began at the end of the 19th century and has since produced billions of tons of high-quality magnetite ore. Operated by the state-owned company LKAB, the mining operations currently reach depths of over 1,300 meters below the surface. The extensive extraction has caused significant ground deformation, leading to the historic relocation of Kiruna's city center to a safer area several kilometers away. Visitors can explore a dedicated visitor center located 540 meters underground to learn about modern mining techniques and the global significance of Swedish iron ore. Over decades, the mountain's physical profile has been drastically altered by the shift from open-pit mining to large-scale underground operations.
- Location: Sweden
- Top sights: Kiirunavaara · Kiruna krematorium · simhallsbadet
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
Getting there
You can reach the mountain area via the main roads leading to Kiruna in northern Sweden. Since it is an active mining zone, public access is restricted to official guided tours departing from the city center.
Best season
The best time to visit is during the summer months when daylight is abundant and weather is milder. Winter gives a harsh, snowy landscape and potential northern lights, but freezing temperatures require extreme care.
Terrain & paths
The surrounding landscape consists of rugged alpine terrain altered significantly by heavy industrial activity. Visitors mostly navigate on paved roads and established industrial paths, staying strictly away from subsidence zones.
What to bring
Depending on the season, pack heavy winter clothing, insulated boots, and windproof jackets. For guided underground tours, typical safety equipment like hard hats is usually provided by the local organizers.
Parking
Visitors usually leave their vehicles in designated parking areas within Kiruna's city center before joining organized transport. Parking directly at the active mining facilities is strictly regulated and generally not permitted for tourists.
Safety
Mining operations create significant subsidence, meaning ground instability is a severe and constant risk in restricted areas. Obey all warning signs, stay on designated routes, and never cross fences or barriers into closed zones.
Time needed
A typical visit, including an organized guided tour of the available facilities or viewpoints, usually lasts around two to four hours. Exploring the surrounding relocated town areas can easily fill an entire afternoon.
Geography
Facts
- The mine currently operates at a depth of 1,365 meters below ground.
- Enough iron is extracted daily to build six Eiffel Towers.
- The LKAB company has been operating the mine since 1890.
- The entire city center of Kiruna is being moved 3 kilometers to the east.
- Features a visitor center and museum located 540 meters underground.
- The magnetite ore mined here has an iron content of 60-70 percent.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kirunavaara (4)
simhallsbadet
Simhallsbadet is an indoor swimming pool in Kiruna with pools and a sauna.
🌐 kiruna.se🕒 Mo 10:00-20:00; Tu 07:00-20:00; We 07:00-21:00; Th-Fr 07:00-
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Kirunavaara?
The mountain houses the largest underground iron ore mine in the world.
Can you visit the mine?
Yes, there are guided tours to the 'LKAB InfoMine' visitor mine at a depth of 540 m.
Why is the city of Kiruna being moved?
Because of cracks caused by mining in Kirunavaara, the city center must be moved.
Are there tourist hiking trails there?
Hiking directly on Kirunavaara is strictly limited due to active mining.
How deep is the mine?
The main level is currently 1365 meters underground.
Kirunavaara: where is it located?
Kirunavaara is located in Sweden.
Kirunavaara: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kiirunavaara, Kiruna krematorium, simhallsbadet.
Kirunavaara: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kirunavaara: why is it worth visiting?
Kirunavaara is home to the world's largest and most technologically advanced underground iron ore mine, defining the identity of Kiruna in northern Sweden.
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