Vajont Dam
Hiking Highlight
Recommended by 33 hikers
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for: Parco naturale regionale delle Dolomiti Friulane / Parc naturâl regjonâl des Dolomitis furlanis
Tips
The Vajont Dam, located in the valley of the same name in the province of Belluno, is one of the highest dams in Italy, with a height of 262 meters. Built between 1956 and 1960 for the production of hydroelectric energy, the dam blocked the Vajont River, creating an artificial basin. On October 9, 1963, the dam was involved in a tragedy: a huge landslide that broke away from Mount Toc slid into the basin, causing a wave that overwhelmed the dam and destroyed the town of Longarone, causing over 2,000 victims. Today, the Vajont Dam is a symbolic site of the tragedy, with a museum and a memorial to remember the victims and raise awareness of hydrogeological risk.
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•November 13, 2024
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