Kleban-Byk Reservoir, reservoir in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine
Kleban-Byk Reservoir is an artificial lake built in 1950 in Donetsk Oblast, stretching across the landscape with a width of about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and a length of over 9 miles (14 km), covering roughly 4 square miles (10 sq km). Water from the Bychëk River flows into the reservoir and is controlled through a dam to maintain steady levels and supply nearby villages and farms.
Built in 1950 during the Soviet era, the reservoir was part of larger projects supporting agriculture and industry across the region. In 2000, the area gained protection through the creation of the Regional Landscape Park Kleban-Byk, which preserves the land and makes it accessible for visitors to explore the site's historical and natural value.
The reservoir's name likely comes from a blend of Slavic and Turkic words referring to a trough and a bull. Today, the place remains tied to simple outdoor activities like fishing and walking, which are part of how local people connect with the water and land.
Visit on clear days when weather and visibility are best for enjoying the landscape and views. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the area has no major facilities or shops, so it is wise to come prepared with supplies and plan for a leisurely pace.
On the left side of the reservoir sits the Kleban-Byk outcrop, a geological site with very old rocks formed millions of years ago when this area lay beneath the sea. Petrified tree remains can also be found nearby, serving as reminders of the ancient forests that once thrived here.
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