Vale Michões Dam

Category: Civil Architecture > Dam

District: Santarém > Benavente > Samora Correia

Location

The Vale Michões Dam is situated in the vast and serene landscape of the locality of Samora Correia, in the municipality of Benavente, which in turn is part of the Santarém district. This geographical setting places it in the heart of the Ribatejo, a region characterized by its alluvial plain, agricultural fields, and, at times, the presence of cork oaks. Access to the site is through a predominantly rural landscape, where open horizons and tranquility are striking features.

The surrounding environment is dominated by nature and agricultural activity, offering an authentic perspective on the relationship between man and land in this part of Portugal. The dam, with its expanse of water, breaks the uniformity of the landscape, creating a visual and ecological landmark.

A Look at the Construction and the Water Mirror

The Vale Michões Dam represents a civil engineering work that is integrated into the region's water resource management efforts. Its structure was designed for water retention, playing a fundamental role in supporting local agriculture, particularly through field irrigation. Although its scale may be modest compared to the country's large dams, its importance to the surrounding community is undeniable, ensuring water availability during essential periods.

The body of the dam, as a constructed element, dialogues with the surrounding nature. The retained waters form a mirror, which varies in size and reflections according to the time of year and weather conditions. This body of water, in turn, attracts a diversity of fauna, contributing to the site's biodiversity and offering an environment conducive to nature observation.

Harmony between Engineering and Landscape

Visiting the Vale Michões Dam allows one to observe an example of how human intervention can coexist harmoniously with the natural environment. The dam's structure, designed with a practical purpose, inadvertently creates a landscape element that adds value to the rural setting. The serenity emanating from the site, with the gentle sound of water and the vast horizon, invites contemplation and the enjoyment of a calm moment away from urban hustle and bustle.

The site, although focused on its functionality, offers a unique perspective on water management in the Ribatejo and on the discreet beauty of the Portuguese agricultural landscape. It is a testament to the territory's adaptation to human needs, without distorting its natural essence, making it a point of interest for those who value the simplicity and authenticity of the rural environment.

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