Kelbra Dam

The Kelbra Dam is an earth and concrete structure on the Helme River straddling the border between Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt. The barrier holds back a large reservoir that stretches across several kilometers and shapes the landscape of the Goldene Aue region.

The dam was built between 1962 and 1966 as part of an infrastructure project for water supply and flood protection in the region. The structure connects two states and reflects cross-border cooperation during that era.

The reservoir supports a thriving bird population and serves as a gathering place where visitors can observe herons, ducks, and other waterfowl in their natural habitat. The area has become a destination for those seeking to connect with wildlife and water-based landscapes.

Visitors can explore the reservoir area on foot or by bicycle, with pathways accessible around the water. The location is open year-round, though seasons affect bird watching conditions and water levels.

The reservoir is a crucial stopover on migration routes for migratory birds, hosting rare species that are difficult to spot elsewhere in the region. During winter months, hundreds of waterfowl gather here to access open water surfaces for feeding.