Tsimlyansk Reservoir

The Tsimlyansk Reservoir is an artificial body of water on the Don River in southern Russia, stretching between Rostov and Volgograd Oblasts. The water surface spreads across wide plains and forms one of the largest waterways linking the Volga to the Sea of Azov.

The reservoir was formed in 1952 through the construction of a large dam that altered the course of the Don and required the resettlement of entire communities. Beneath its waters lies the old fortress of Sarkel, which once served as an important outpost of the Khazar Khaganate.

The name comes from the nearby town of Tsimlyansk, which stood further downstream before the reservoir was built. Fishermen use the wide water surface to catch carp and catfish, while the shores show wide fields and small harbors.

The water is suitable for navigation between April and November when conditions are stable. The shores are accessible at many points, but distances between settlements can be large, so planning ahead is helpful.

Two consecutive locks, numbered 14 and 15, allow ships to pass between different water levels when crossing the dam system. This design was technically uncommon for its time and remains a noticeable feature of the entire installation today.

Location: Kalach-na-Donu

Location: Rostov Oblast

Location: Volgograd Oblast

GPS coordinates: 47.83333,42.83333

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:19