Jablanica lake, Artificial lake in Jablanica, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Jablanica lake is an artificial reservoir on the Neretva River located between Sarajevo and Mostar along the M17 highway. The water is surrounded by steep mountain walls and forms a long, narrow bay with several arms.
The lake was created in 1953 and 1954 as part of a hydroelectric project during Marshal Tito's era. Its formation led to the flooding of several villages and the displacement of their inhabitants.
The area holds hundreds of medieval tombstones called stećci that show ancient burial customs and remain an important part of the region's cultural identity.
The lake is accessible via the M17 highway, and the main facilities are located in the southern section around Ostrožac village. Beaches, boat rentals, restaurants, and accommodations are available in this area.
During the severe drought of 2012, the water level dropped so much that a submerged cemetery became visible. These graves were originally flooded during the lake's creation and show the human cost of this major infrastructure.
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