Denkendorfer Erlachsee, Natural reserve in Denkendorf, Germany.
Denkendorfer Erlachsee is a protected natural reserve covering about 4.4 hectares, situated in a natural depression and ringed by reed beds and wetland zones. This patchwork of water and vegetation supports a range of animals and plants adapted to these wet conditions.
The lake was created in 1129 when Cistercian monks built a dam across this natural depression to cultivate carp for their fasting periods. This monastic origin shaped the site for centuries.
Local residents of Denkendorf call this water body simply 'Dor Sae' in their dialect, as it remains the only lake in the immediate region. The name reflects how important this place is as a landmark in everyday local life.
A circular path lets visitors walk through parts of the protected area, while certain sections stay closed to protect wildlife. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the soggy ground can be muddy during wet weather.
The lake includes a specialized tunnel system built to help amphibians safely cross under the road without having to cross the road surface itself. These passages show how modern conservation works to protect animal migrations in protected areas.
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