Gdańska Głowa, Lock in Gmina Stegna, Poland
Gdańska Głowa is a lock in Gmina Stegna that connects the Vistula River with the Szkarpawa River, serving as a major junction in northern Poland's river navigation network. The structure allows vessels to move between different water levels while linking two important waterways.
The lock was built in the 17th century as a fortified structure to control water levels and protect the surrounding Żuławy region from seasonal floods. This early construction shaped the area and its approach to water management that continues today.
The lock represents how people in the Żuławy region have managed water for centuries as a vital part of their lives. Visitors can see this skill reflected in the structure and the way it remains central to how the landscape functions today.
The lock operates primarily during the navigation season from April to October, with the longest operation hours available during summer months. It is best to check with local authorities about current conditions and hours if you plan any boat passage through the waterway.
The lock maintains separate water levels between the two rivers, which prevents salt water from entering the surrounding agricultural lands. This function is often overlooked but remains crucial for farming in the region.
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