Póvoa e Meadas Dam

Category: Civil Architecture > Dam

District: Portalegre > Castelo de Vide > Castelo de Vide

Location

The Póvoa e Meadas Dam is located in an area with the same name, integrated into the locality and municipality of Castelo de Vide. It stands on the bed of the Ribeira de Nisa, a tributary of the Tagus basin, and is situated about five kilometers northwest of the town of Castelo de Vide. This position gives it a serene natural setting, characteristic of the Alentejo landscape, with water punctuating the terrain.

A Pioneering Work

Inaugurated in 1928, the Póvoa e Meadas Dam represents an important milestone in the history of energy production in Portugal. At the time of its completion, it stood out as one of the country's first and largest hydroelectric infrastructures. Its construction had the main objective of harnessing the waters of the Ribeira de Nisa to generate electricity, contributing substantially to the development of the region and the country in its time.

Dam Characteristics

The dam's structure is of the gravity type and was constructed of concrete, rising to a height of approximately 28.5 meters above natural ground. Its crest extends for about 400 meters, resting on a solid granite foundation. This imposing construction not only fulfills its water retention function but also integrates into the landscape, revealing the engineering of the time and the robustness of the project.

The Reservoir and Wildlife

The reservoir created by the dam forms a vast expanse of water. Its calm waters form a valuable ecosystem, attracting various species of water birds. It is a recognized place for birdwatching, such as the great crested grebe, and for the presence of several nesting species, which find a suitable habitat in this environment. Motorized navigation is not permitted, which contributes to maintaining the serenity and environmental quality of the site.

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