Solina Dam
Podkarpackie
Solina Dam is a monumental concrete gravity dam located in the Bieszczady Mountains of south-eastern Poland, near the village of Solina in Lesko County. Completed in 1968, it is the largest dam in Poland and was constructed to regulate the flow of the San River and prevent flooding. The dam is 664 meters long, 81.8 meters high, and was built using approximately 820,000 cubic meters of cement, weighing about 2 million tonnes. Its construction created Lake Solina, the largest artificial lake in Poland, which has become a popular destination for water sports and tourism. The dam also functions as a pumped-storage hydroelectric power station with four turbines, initially generating 136 MW of electricity, later modernized to 200 MW, contributing significantly to the regional power supply. Two of the turbines can reverse flow to pump water back from the Myczkowce reservoir, optimizing energy production during peak demand. The dam is accessible to visitors, offering tours and serving as a bridge to the Lake Solina marina, enhancing its appeal as a tourist attraction. The surrounding area is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Planifiez votre voyage en Pologne avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: The best time to visit Solina Dam is during late spring through early autumn when weather conditions favor outdoor activities and lake tourism. Visitors are advised to book guided tours in advance to ensure availability. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. The dam also serves as a gateway to boating and other water sports on Lake Solina, so consider planning for combined activities. Arriving early in the day can help avoid crowds, especially during peak holiday seasons.
Faits intéressants
- •Solina Dam is the largest dam in Poland by size and volume.
- •The dam created Lake Solina, the largest artificial lake in Poland.
- •It uses a pumped-storage system where two turbines can pump water back to the lake, optimizing energy production.
- •The dam weighs approximately 2 million tonnes and required 820,000 cubic meters of cement for construction.
- •A unique mural on the dam wall was created in 2015 using a cleaning technique to depict local flora and fauna.
Histoire
The idea for a dam in the San River area dates back to 1921 with initial plans for a smaller dam in Myczkowce.
Construction was delayed by World War II and restarted after the war with revised plans for a larger dam in Solina.
The Myczkowce Dam, serving as a supporting structure downstream, was completed between 1956 and 1960.
Construction of the Solina Dam itself began in 1960 based on designs by Feliks Niczke and was finished in 1968.
The dam and associated hydroelectric power plants have undergone modernization since the 1990s, increasing their capacity and efficiency.
A notable cultural addition includes a large mural created on the dam's wall in 2015, depicting local wildlife and vegetation using a clean (reverse) technique by artist Przemysław Truściński.
Guide du lieu
Dam Structure and Viewing Platform1968
The massive concrete gravity dam stretches 664 meters in length and towers 81.8 meters high. Visitors can explore the dam's crest, which serves as a pedestrian bridge offering panoramic views over Lake Solina and surrounding mountains.
Hydroelectric Power Station1968 (modernized 2000-2003)
The power plant at Solina Dam houses four Francis-type turbines with a combined installed capacity of 200 MW after modernization. Two turbines operate in pumped-storage mode, pumping water back to Lake Solina from the Myczkowce reservoir during low demand periods to maximize electricity generation efficiency.
Lake Solina Marina Access
The dam serves as a gateway to Lake Solina’s marina, facilitating recreational boating and water sports. The marina area is a hub for tourists seeking leisure activities on the largest artificial lake in Poland.
Contact
Téléphone: 13 492 12 98