Aras Dam, Embankment dam and power station at Azerbaijan-Iran border.
The Aras Dam is a hydroelectric installation spanning the river valley on the Azerbaijan-Iran border with two turbines for power generation. The structure creates a reservoir that supplies water for irrigation across the valley floor.
The dam grew from a Soviet-Iranian agreement in the 1970s to jointly manage river resources and share the benefits of electricity and irrigation. Its completion marked a significant moment for cross-border infrastructure development in the region.
The dam's construction uncovered Bronze Age archaeological sites, revealing ancient settlements that once existed in the valley. Visitors can still observe traces of this early habitation near the reservoir today.
The dam sits in a remote border area and is generally not accessible to casual visitors due to its strategic location and dual national jurisdiction. Anyone interested in seeing the site should check local regulations beforehand, as access depends on both nations.
The spillway system carefully manages river discharge to maintain stable water levels year-round for farming and power needs. This engineering allows the dam to balance seasonal water fluctuations while serving both nations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
