Panzertalsperre, reservoir in Germany
Panzertalsperre is a stone and concrete dam in Remscheid, Germany that holds back about 200,000 cubic meters of water. The structure has a straight, solid form with vertical supports called lisenen that stabilize it, while the calm water surface behind it creates a still lake.
This structure was built between 1891 and 1893 to supply drinking water to Remscheid-Lennep, making it one of the oldest dams in Germany. Engineer Albert Schmidt designed it as a weight dam that secured the region's water supply for many decades until larger reservoirs replaced it in the 1990s.
The name Panzertalsperre reflects the nearby town of Lennep, whose residents once depended on this structure for their water supply. Today the reservoir is a place where locals enjoy walks and observe the calm water surface, showing how the structure has shifted from a utility to a space for leisure and nature.
The paths around the reservoir are wide and easy to walk, suitable for relaxed strolls in any weather. Dogs are welcome, and there are spots for picnicking along the calm water, though swimming is not permitted.
This structure was originally built only about 41 feet (12.5 m) high but was later raised to nearly 49 feet (15 m) to store more water and strengthen the structure. The crown of the dam is wide enough for a person to walk across, making it an unusual feature for visitors to explore.
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