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SOLINA DAM: AN EXTRAORDINARY ATTRACTION IN THE HEART OF BIESZCZADY MOUNTAINS

The Solina Water Dam - a gem of engineering hidden in the heart of Bieszczady Mountains. Completed in July 1968, after nine years of construction, it became the tallest concrete water dam in Poland and a key hydro-technical structure in the country. Its uniqueness is primarily evidenced by its impressive height of almost 82 meters and length of 664 meters.

DAM HISTORY: FROM CONCEPTION TO REALIZATION

The project to dam the waters of San and Solinka rivers, which initiated the construction of the dam, was developed in 1921 by Professor Karol Pomianowski. Initially, the dam was built on the San River in Myczkowce, and only in the autumn of 1960 did work begin in Solina. Despite interruptions in construction and many challenges, the determination and work of over 2000 workers allowed for the creation of this impressive structure, which transformed the landscape and life of the region. Lake Solina was created on the territory of several previously displaced villages, including Teleśnica Sanna, Horodek, Sokół, Chrewt, Zawóz, and a large part of Wołkowyja. Several hundred houses and outbuildings were leveled to the ground, not to mention the captivating churches that were symbols of the region. The approximate number of displaced residents was around 3,000. The dam was put into operation in July 1968.

The dam weighs about 2 million tons, which is equivalent to the weight of 40,000 trucks! The volume of concrete is 760,000 m³, an amount that could build several skyscrapers.

SOLINA LAKE: A TOURIST ATTRACTION

Thanks to this monumental structure, the Solina Reservoir was created, the largest artificial water reservoir in Poland with a capacity of 472 million m³, which delights both tourists and enthusiasts of active recreation and offers countless opportunities to spend unforgettable moments in the heart of nature. Surrounded by picturesque Bieszczady landscapes, with a total shoreline length of 160 km and a maximum depth of 60 meters, the reservoir offers countless recreational opportunities – from sailing and kayaking to fishing. The reservoir's bottom hides many secrets, fragments of undemolished buildings, remnants of everyday objects, and much more.

SOLINA POWER PLANT: SOURCE OF ENERGY AND INSPIRATION

This structure not only regulates water levels and protects against floods but is also the largest pumped-storage power plant in Poland, providing a significant source of renewable energy. It consists of 4 hydro units, and the potential drop can reach up to 60 meters. Near the monumental dam, a hydroelectric power plant was built with a capacity of 200 MW, which powers this unique place. By utilizing the energy of water stored in the dam, which flows through a turbine, the Solina Power Plant converts the natural power of water into clean electrical energy. A visit to the power plant is a fascinating journey into the world of technology.

The Solina Dam is a magnet attracting tourists from all over Poland. A walk on the dam's crest, exploration of its interior, as well as the opportunity to take a boat cruise on Lake Solina, offer a unique experience and breathtaking views.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BIESZCZADY MOUNTAINS AND THEIR ATTRACTIONS

Solina Dam and Lake Solina are just a few of the many attractions of Bieszczady Mountains, a region that constantly captivates with its wild beauty, monuments, cultural wealth, and history. From hiking trails through mountain paths to discovering wooden sacred architecture to relaxation by the water – the Bieszczady Mountains offer countless opportunities for adventure.

Want to learn more about the Bieszczady Mountains and other attractions this unique region has to offer? Visit https://podkarpackie.travel/en/regions/bieszczady, where you'll find a rich source of information about trails, monuments, and places worth visiting in Bieszczady Mountains. Discover all the secrets of Bieszczady Mountains and embark on the adventure of a lifetime exploring one of Poland's most beautiful regions.