European Capital of Culture 2029

Every year, the EU designates two cities as European Capitals of Culture. The aim is to highlight European diversity, celebrate what the countries have in common, and at the same time showcase the unique culture of each city and region. Since the spring of 2023, municipal officials, politicians, associations, cultural practitioners, businesses, and Region Norrbotten have been working intensively on the application process, which has included presentations, jury visits, hearings, and publications in several rounds. On December 6, 2024, the international jury announced that Kiruna will represent Sweden and bear the title of European Capital of Culture 2029.

In many ways, Kiruna is one of Europe’s most contrasting places. The light is brighter, the cold is colder, the peaks are higher, the expanses are larger, and the location is farther north than anywhere else in Sweden. It’s a special and unique place where the Swedish, Sami, and Tornedalian cultures live side by side. Here, you can experience both the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, indigenous peoples and space research. It is home to Sweden’s highest mountain and the world’s largest underground iron ore mine.

“In the contrasts, sparks are ignited; in meetings and oppositions, something new and unique is born. This is what we want to share with the world” – Markus Forsberg, Cultural Director/Deputy Head of Administration.

Kiruna city was built on this mine 124 years ago, but now the ground is cracking due to the growing mining activity. This means the city must relocate. But how does a city find its soul, character, and culture after a move, and in the midst of all this change? This is what Kiruna wants to explore as a European Capital of Culture.

Being designated a European Capital of Culture, according to evaluations by the European Commission, can help increase local pride in the region, boost participation in cultural life, and create new international collaborations. Kiruna needs culture to foster a vibrant community climate and counter the tendency to become a fly-in, fly-out community. This is crucial to ensure increased talent supply and attractiveness in the municipality and region. Moreover, such a designation would create better conditions for cultural creators and promote creative environments for living and working throughout the Kiruna municipality.