Reservoir of La Tranquera, reservoir in Spain
Reservoir of La Tranquera is a large water basin in Zaragoza Province, formed behind a concrete gravity dam that stretches over 200 meters in length and rises more than 45 meters high. The water covers approximately 530 hectares and is surrounded by gentle rolling hills and farmland, creating a wide open landscape visible from many vantage points.
Construction of this reservoir began in the early 1950s and was completed around 1959 to control water from the Piedra River and supply irrigation and drinking water to the region. The project submerged two villages, Somed and Cocos, and required significant engineering effort, with workers contributing years of labor to this major regional undertaking.
The name 'La Tranquera' comes from a local word for a small gate or door used on farms, reflecting the rural traditions of the area. The reservoir serves as a gathering place where locals engage in everyday outdoor activities like picnicking, fishing, and leisurely walks along the water's edge.
The area offers quiet trails for walking and cycling along the water's edge, where you can observe local birds and enjoy viewpoints overlooking the landscape. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, as there are few major facilities nearby, but the area is safe and accessible for leisurely exploration at your own pace.
Two villages, Somed and Cocos, were submerged beneath the water during the dam's construction, and their stories remain part of local memory and oral history. This hidden aspect adds a reflective depth to the calm surface, reminding visitors that the serene landscape holds tales of displacement and resilience.
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