Home / Series / DW Documentaries / Aired Order / Season 2026 / Episode 67

The price of iron ore - Relocating an entire city in Sweden

A church that "migrates” to a new location kilometers away. A key event in the relocation of the northern Swedish city of Kiruna. As iron ore mining encroaches on its territory, large parts of the city are being forced to make way. Many buildings are being demolished, and the city center now consists largely of new construction. Leaving many residents of Kiruna unhappy. For several years now, Stefan Holmblad Johansson has been preparing for the day the church must leave its longtime home. He’s responsible for the relocation of the house of worship at the mining company LKAB. But he also has a personal connection to the church, like many people here in Kiruna. A few years ago, the Swedes voted the church the most beautiful building in the whole country. Its relocation was staged as a media-friendly folk festival. But for many people, the move is no cause for celebration. Lina Brännström grew up near the old city center.

English
  • Originally Aired May 18, 2026
  • Runtime 25 minutes
  • Network Deutsche Welle TV
  • Created October 10, 2026 by
    andresflower
  • Modified October 10, 2026 by
    andresflower