Reservoir of Barrios de Luna

The Reservoir of Barrios de Luna is a large water storage in the province of León in northern Spain, covering approximately 1130 hectares at an elevation of around 1108 meters. The water supplies irrigation systems for extensive agricultural land in the region.

Construction of this reservoir began in 1945 according to plans by engineer Luis de Llanos y Silvela and was completed in 1956. The project became one of the major water storage facilities built in northern Spain during that period.

The creation of this reservoir resulted in the flooding of sixteen villages and neighborhoods, including Arévalo and Campo de Luna, which fundamentally changed the local landscape and communities. This event remains deeply connected to how people in the region understand their land.

Water levels fluctuate depending on the season and weather conditions, which affects access to shoreline areas. Visitors should check local conditions beforehand to get the best experience of the area.

During a severe drought in September 2017, water levels dropped to just 4 percent capacity, revealing the ruins of the submerged villages. These rare moments allow visitors a glimpse into the history hidden beneath the water.