One of Norrbotten’s biggest tourist attractions was built for the first time in December 1989 – on a very modest scale.
The building has grown over the years and so has the interest among both visitors and ice artists. This year, 32 artists from 14 countries have been selected to build 15 special art suites.
– Some we have collaborated with for over 20 years, others have come for the first time, says Luca Roncoroni, creative director at Ishotellet.
Intensive work
Work began six weeks ago and with only hours to go until the opening, many artists were still left to put the finishing touches on their works.
We took the back of CEO Marie Herrey so as not to get lost among the corridors in the huge ice and snow building.
In the clip, we get a sneak peek inside the ice hotel just before the opening.