Alfilorios reservoir, dam in Ribera de Arriba, Asturias
The Alfilorios reservoir is a large water basin in Asturias covering about 52 hectares, fed primarily by the Barrea River. An earth dam approximately 67 meters tall holds back the water, which can reach depths of around 66 meters and is directed to supply nearby towns, especially the city of Oviedo.
Construction of this dam on the Barrea River began in the late 1960s but was interrupted after the first year and resumed in 1974. The project finally reached completion in 1990, establishing a key water storage system for the region's growing communities.
The reservoir functions as a gathering place for local communities who rely on it for daily water supply and recreation. People from nearby towns use the shoreline for quiet walks and fishing, treating it as a natural meeting point where practical needs and simple leisure blend.
Access to the reservoir is straightforward via the N-630 road from Oviedo toward Santolaya, where local signs direct you to smaller roads leading to the site. A small visitor area on the northern shore offers viewpoints and easy walking paths along the water.
The mountain Monsacro rises outside the water and bears two medieval chapels on its summit, telling visitors of deeper historical layers in this area. This ancient site provides a visible landmark from the visitor area, linking the modern water infrastructure with older spiritual places.
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