The **Vidraru Dam** is a hydroelectric dam on the Argeș River in the Făgăraș Mountains of Romania, located in the southern Carpathians. It’s one of the most impressive engineering feats in Romania, constructed between 1960 and 1966. Known for its breathtaking setting amidst mountains and forests, the dam creates the **Vidraru Lake**, a reservoir that spans around 870 hectares.
### Key Facts about Vidraru Dam:
- **Height**: 166 meters (545 feet), making it one of the tallest dams in Europe.
- **Length**: 305 meters (1,001 feet) along the crest.
- **Type**: Arch dam, which means it curves toward the water, using the natural pressure of the water to strengthen the dam's structure.
- **Lake Capacity**: Approximately 465 million cubic meters of water.
- **Purpose**: Built to generate hydroelectric power, control floods, and provide water for the region.
### Attractions and Features:
1. **Scenic Views**: Vidraru Dam offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding Carpathian Mountains, attracting tourists and photographers.
2. **Vidraru Lake**: Popular for boating, fishing, and scenic boat tours.
3. **Statue of Prometheus**: A statue symbolizing electrical power, located at the top of the dam, adds to the area’s unique appeal.
4. **Nearby Transfăgărășan Road**: This famous mountain road, one of the most scenic and dramatic in the world, starts near Vidraru and winds through the Făgăraș Mountains, drawing many visitors each year.
### Visiting Vidraru Dam
The dam can be visited year-round, but it's especially popular during the summer months when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. The area is also popular for hiking, and there are trails nearby with views of both the dam and the beautiful landscapes surrounding it.