Is Kiruna the largest city in the world?
Kiruna was founded in 1899 with the extension of the railroad from Gällivare, and in 1908 it became a municipality. Having incorporated more than 7,980 square miles (20,669 square km) in 1948, it claimed to be the world’s largest city in area.
Is Kiruna Sweden above the Arctic Circle?
Kiruna is located in the north of Sweden, 145 kilometres (90 mi) north of the Arctic circle. The city centre is built on the Haukavaara hill at an altitude of 530 m, high above the Torne river to the north and the Kalix river to the south.
Is Kiruna sinking?
The Swedish town of Kiruna is sinking into the caverns excavated by more than half a century of iron ore mining in the region.
What is Kiruna famous for?
Kiruna is the northernmost town in Sweden. It’s home to the world’s largest underground iron-ore mine, opened in 1898 and still in use.
Was Kiruna moved?
Sweden’s northernmost town is on the move, building by building. Because of the risk posed by expanding mining operations, the entire town center of Kiruna is being relocated approximately two miles to the east.
Is Kiruna moving?
Because of the risk posed by expanding mining operations, the entire town center of Kiruna is being relocated approximately two miles to the east. More than 20 buildings of historical value will be moved in their entirety to a new downtown district set for completion in 2035.
Why is Kiruna sinking?
Over the course of a century, miners have dug so many tunnels in the area that the city is literally sinking into the earth. Since the mining operations couldn’t be moved, and were too valuable to close, LKAB decided in 2004 to move the city instead.
What is happening to Kiruna?
Can you see the Northern Lights from Kiruna?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, appear during the beginning of September in and around Kiruna in the far north of Sweden. The sky comes alive as streaks of pinks, greens and purples dance high above. On clear evenings, the best time to see Northern Lights in Sweden is between 6:00 pm and 2:00 am.