Alqueva Dam

Category: Civil Architecture > Dam

District: Beja > Moura > Moura

Location

The Alqueva Dam rises imposingly in the heart of Alentejo, more precisely in the district of Beja and the municipality of Moura. Its presence has transformed the landscape of this vast region, creating a horizon that combines the golden, rolling plains of Alentejo with the blue immensity of its reservoir. It is a privileged viewpoint for contemplating the grandeur of human engineering and the tranquility of the surrounding nature, offering unobstructed views over the water and the encompassing Mediterranean landscape.

An Engineering Feat and Vision

Inaugurated at the beginning of the 21st century, the Alqueva Dam represents one of the largest and most significant civil engineering works carried out in Portugal. Its construction was an undertaking of enormous scale, designed to tame the waters of the Guadiana River. This monumental structure was conceived to drive the development of Alentejo, ensuring the supply of water for agriculture, public consumption, and hydroelectric power generation, profoundly transforming the economy and the life of the region.

The Reservoir and the New Face of Alentejo

The construction of the dam gave rise to the Alqueva Reservoir, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe. This vast expanse of water, stretching over thousands of hectares, is a central element in the region's current identity. Its creation altered the landscape and ecosystem, generating new horizons and possibilities. Where dryland fields once predominated, there is now a new Alentejo "coastline," reflecting the sky and trees, offering panoramas of singular beauty and an unparalleled sense of expanse.

History and Human Adaptability

The history of the Alqueva Dam is also the story of human adaptation to a project of such magnitude. One of the most striking aspects of its construction was the relocation of the old Village of Luz, which was submerged by the reservoir's waters. This process involved the construction of a new village, preserving the memory and original community in a new location. It is a testament to the ability to reconcile technological progress with respect for cultural heritage and the lives of the populations affected by this impactful work.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt