Kiruna Church

Kiruna Church is one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings and was voted the country's most beloved pre-1950 structure in a nationwide poll. It was designed by architect Gustaf Wickman and built between 1909 and 1912. Its shape is inspired by the Sami goahti, a traditional tent dwelling. The roof flows down almost to the ground and is covered in continuous wooden shingles that blend the walls and roof line into one form. Twelve gilded bronze figures by sculptor Christian Eriksson line the roof, each representing a different emotional state, and they catch the light beautifully depending on the time of day and season. The deep red colour of the wood makes the building pop against snow in winter and green birch trees in summer. Inside, the mood shifts completely. The gable windows flood the main nave with natural light, while coloured panes along the lower walls keep the side aisles darker and moodier. The altarpiece, called "The Holy Grove," was painted by Prince Eugen and depicts a vast open landscape that feels perfectly suited to this part of the world. Sami influenced woodwork and carved latticework run throughout the interior. In August 2025, the entire church was carefully moved 5km to a new location due to ground subsidence from the nearby Kiruna iron ore mine. Entry is free, but since this is still an active church you may want to check their schedule before planning your shooting adventure. (Kiruna, Norrbottens län, Sweden)