Jvari Reservoir, reservoir in Georgia
Jvari Reservoir is a large body of water in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti that stretches about 30 kilometers along the Enguri River. The basin reaches about 226 meters deep and is held back by a massive concrete arch dam, one of the country's most important structures.
The Enguri Dam was built between 1961 and 1978 and ranks among the world's tallest concrete arch dams. The project grew from Georgia's push to develop its energy resources and harness the river's hydroelectric potential.
The name comes from the Georgian word for cross, a term you see repeated throughout the region. Local people use the water for fishing and small boat activities, showing how the reservoir fits into everyday life here.
The area is walkable on foot, but for broader exploration, local minibuses (marshrutkas) from nearby towns like Zugdidi offer the most practical option. The site is accessible year-round, though summer provides the most appealing conditions with reflective waters and comfortable weather.
The water appears dark and mysterious because the basin reaches one of the deepest points in Georgia. This extreme depth gave the project its reputation as one of the region's most ambitious engineering achievements.
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