43) Kiruna, Sweden
Kiruna is a small town located in the northernmost part of Sweden, in the Lapland region. It is situated about 145 km north of the Arctic Circle, and its unique location has earned it the title of the “Gateway to the Arctic.”
The town was founded in 1900 when the mining company Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara Aktiebolag (LKAB) discovered large iron ore deposits in the area. Since then, mining has been the primary industry in Kiruna, and the town has grown around it.
Despite its remote location, Kiruna is a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the winter months when visitors come to see the spectacular Northern Lights. The town also offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.
One of the main attractions in Kiruna is the Kiruna Church, which is known for its unusual architecture. Designed by Swedish architect Gustaf Wickman, the church was built in 1912 and features a distinctive bell tower that stands separate from the main building.
Welcomw To The Kiruna, Sweden!
- Northern Lights: Kiruna is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. During the winter months, there are several tours and excursions that you can take to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
- Abisko National Park: Located about an hour’s drive from Kiruna, Abisko National Park is a stunning wilderness area that is known for its pristine natural beauty. The park offers hiking trails, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities.
- Icehotel: The world-famous Icehotel is located in the nearby town of Jukkasjärvi, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The hotel is rebuilt every year using ice blocks from the nearby Torne River, and it features unique ice sculptures and artwork.
- Kiruna Church: The Kiruna Church is an iconic landmark in the town, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The church’s unique architecture and bell tower make it a popular spot for photography.
- LKAB Mine: While the mine is not open to the public, you can take a tour of the Kiruna mine’s visitor center to learn more about the mining industry in the town and the history of the LKAB mine.
- Husky Tours: Husky tours are a popular winter activity in Kiruna, and several tour operators offer sledding experiences where you can be pulled by a team of huskies through the stunning Lapland wilderness.
- Sami Culture: The Sami people are the indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, and there are several opportunities in Kiruna to learn more about their culture and way of life. You can visit a Sami reindeer farm, participate in a traditional Sami cooking class, or attend a cultural event.
Kiruna’s Most Significant Landmark Is Perhaps The Lkab Mine, Which Has Been In Operation For Over A Century. The Mine Is One Of The Largest And Most Modern Underground Iron Ore Mines In The World And Is Responsible For Providing Employment To A Large Proportion Of Kiruna’s Population.🌇