Zillierbach Dam, Gravity dam near Elbingerode, Germany.
Zillierbach Dam is a gravity dam in the Harz that holds back a large reservoir. The structure has a straight water barrier and is surrounded by an extensive hiking path that connects the water body to the surrounding mountain landscape.
The dam was created in the 1930s in response to flooding risks in the nearby area. During construction, workers discovered traces from prehistoric times, showing that the region had been inhabited for thousands of years.
The dam is a visible example of 20th century German engineering and shapes the landscape of the Harz. Visitors can experience the functional design of the structure while walking around the water.
A walking route of about 4.5 kilometers goes around the entire basin and offers various access points from nearby towns. The path connects with other hiking trails in the mountain region and is suitable for visitors of different fitness levels.
The water body was previously known by a different name and originally served to supply water to several settlements in the Harz. This function remains important today for providing drinking water to the region.
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