Kurit Dam, Masonry arch dam in Deyhuk Rural District, Iran.
The Kurit Dam is a masonry arch dam standing approximately 60 meters high with a length of 50 meters, built from stone, brick, and saruj mortar with an engineered outlet system. The arched structure relies on its curved wall to distribute water pressure across the canyon sides effectively.
Construction started in the 14th century, making it the world's tallest dam until the early 1900s. Additional modifications to increase its height were completed in 1850.
The structure displays elements from both Ilkhanid and Qajar periods, showing how Persian builders adapted their methods across centuries. You can see these different approaches reflected in how the stonework and brickwork are arranged throughout the construction.
The site is located approximately 56 kilometers from Tabas near the village of Kurit in the Dasht-e Kavir region. Access requires driving, as the location is remote with minimal nearby facilities or services.
The lower downstream face shows partial structural damage from collapse, while the original reservoir area now holds accumulated sediment. These changes occurred after a new dam was built downstream in 2005.
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