Volga–Don Canal

The Volga–Don Canal links two major rivers across southern Russia through a 101-kilometer route. The system uses thirteen locks and three reservoirs to manage the elevation differences between the two waterways.

Construction finished in 1952 after roughly 900,000 workers contributed to the project. Many of these workers were prisoners of war and camp detainees who labored under harsh conditions.

The waterway functions as a central trade route for timber transport westward and coal movement eastward between the Caspian Sea and global oceans.

The system raises vessels up to 88 meters (289 feet) toward the Volga and lowers them 44 meters (144 feet) to the Don using specialized lock facilities. Visitors can observe the engineering works from public waterfront areas where cargo ships pass through the locks.

The link allows vessels to travel between the Caspian Sea and the world's oceans via the Black Sea. This route saves thousands of kilometers compared to the alternative journey around Europe.

Location: Volgograd Oblast

Location: Rostov Oblast

Part of: Unified Deep Water System of European Russia

GPS coordinates: 48.57000,44.15000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:30