Ogosta Reservoir
Montana
Ogosta Reservoir, located near the city of Montana in north-west Bulgaria, is the country's second largest artificial lake and one of the largest in the Balkan Peninsula. Created by damming the Ogosta, Burzia, and Zlatitsa rivers, it spans approximately 24 square kilometers with a catchment area of 948 km². The reservoir was completed in 1986 after two decades of construction, during which two villages were submerged and their populations relocated. Originally intended to irrigate large agricultural lands, the irrigation infrastructure was never fully realized. Instead, the reservoir's waters now primarily support hydroelectric power generation through two stations, "Kosharnik" and "Ogosta." Designated for commercial fishing since 1999, it hosts a variety of fish species including carp, perch, and barbus. The reservoir lies about 600 meters southwest of Montana's city edge and sits roughly 60 meters above the city's ground level, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Despite its benefits, concerns about the dam's stability have been raised, leading to increased security measures. Ogosta Reservoir remains an important natural and engineered feature blending utility, nature, and local history.
Plan your trip to Bulgaria with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Ogosta Reservoir is during spring and summer when fishing and outdoor activities are most favorable. Visitors interested in fishing should check local regulations and consider obtaining permits in advance. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer pleasant weather and ideal lighting for photography. As the dam area is guarded, respect all safety guidelines and access restrictions. No comprehensive irrigation infrastructure means recreational use is predominant, so plan accordingly.
Interesting facts
- •Ogosta Reservoir is the second largest artificial lake in Bulgaria and among the largest in the Balkans.
- •The reservoir collects waters from three rivers: Ogosta, Burzia, and Zlatitsa.
- •Two villages, Jivovtsi and Kalimanitsa, were submerged during its construction, displacing their inhabitants.
- •The name 'Ogosta' may derive from the Latin name 'Augusta'.
- •Despite its original irrigation purpose, the reservoir mainly serves hydroelectric power generation today.
- •It supports a diverse fish population including carp, perch, and barbus, making it popular for fishing.
- •Since 2003, the dam wall has been guarded by the gendarmerie due to safety concerns.
History
Construction of Ogosta Reservoir began in the mid-20th century and spanned twenty years, concluding in 1986.
The project involved flooding two villages, Jivovtsi and Kalimanitsa, whose residents were resettled.
Initially designed to irrigate agricultural lands between Montana and Zlatia, the irrigation system was only half completed by 1989 and never fully operational.
Since then, the reservoir's function shifted to hydroelectric power production with two power stations built below the dam.
The reservoir was officially opened in 1987 and has since become a center for commercial fishing and local recreation.
Concerns about dam safety have led to judicial and governmental scrutiny, with security measures implemented from 2003 onward.
