Mrhal, Lake and cultural monument in Hlincová Hora, Czech Republic
Mrhal is a lake in Hlincová Hora featuring a substantial stone dam that holds back the water and shapes the landscape. The body of water stretches across a considerable area with different sections to explore.
The lake was established in 1555 to supply water for mining equipment in a nearby mining district. Italian workers built the large dam structure then, which still stands today.
The name reflects a tragic incident from the 19th century involving a farmer's death near the dam. This dark story remains part of the place's identity when visitors walk around it today.
The lake is now privately owned and managed by a fishing company, so check access rules before visiting. You can find fishing and swimming opportunities there, depending on current conditions and permissions.
Researchers discovered tens of thousands of freshwater mussels of several species during a drainage in 2018, living in the lake for centuries. The find revealed how rich the ecosystem of this old water body truly was.
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