Barragem da Pedra do Cavalo, Hydroelectric dam in Recôncavo, Brazil.
Barragem da Pedra do Cavalo is a hydroelectric power station that stretches 470 meters across the Paraguaçu River with five spillway gates for managing water flow. The concrete structure stores water for the region's energy production and water supply needs.
The facility was built in the 1980s and filled with water faster than expected, taking four years instead of the planned ten. This rapid development significantly changed how water was managed across the region.
The dam's operations influence the daily lives of residents in the historical cities of São Félix and Cachoeira, where water flow regulations help prevent flooding.
The dam is located in a rural setting and can be reached from the towns of Cachoeira and São Félix, which are connected by ferries. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved roads and wear sturdy shoes when exploring the area.
The structure spans between two historic towns and serves as a water bridge connecting separate communities that share cultural traditions. Local residents often gather on nearby banks during dry seasons to observe changing water levels.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.