Greifenbachstauweiher, reservoir
The Greifenbachstauweiher is an artificial pond near Ehrenfriedersdorf in the Erzgebirge region, held back by an earthen dam. The water spreads across a wide area surrounded by woods and fields, with paths used for walking and cycling.
The Greifenbachstauweiher was built around 1396 to supply water for copper and tin mines in Ehrenfriedersdorf. The dam was enlarged multiple times, particularly in the 1940s and late 1960s, to hold more water.
The name Greifenbachstauweiher refers to the Greifenbach stream that feeds the water into the pond. Today it functions as a gathering spot where people swim, paddle boats, or sit along the shore enjoying the quiet.
The site offers parking, benches, and small cafes along the shore, plus swimming and boat rental facilities. It is easy to reach by car and sees the most visitors during summer months, while winter is quieter.
The dam was partly enlarged using labor from French and Soviet prisoners of war, a lesser-known part of its history. Visitors often overlook the traces of this past visible in the structures and repairs.
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