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Dubăsari Dam
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The Dubăsari Dam on the Dniester River was constructed between 1951 and 1954 and was the first major hydroelectric power plant in the former Moldavian SSR. The dam has a length of approximately 400 meters and a height of nearly 40 meters, creating the Dubăsari reservoir, which covers an area of 67.5 square kilometers. The power plant has an installed capacity of 48 megawatts and is a critical component of the regional energy supply. Beyond electricity generation, the facility serves to regulate the water level of the Dniester, improving flood protection for downstream areas. The reservoir is also used for fish farming and as a recreational area, although access is partially restricted due to the political situation in Transnistria. Technically, the construction of the dam was a pioneering achievement for local industry and enabled the establishment of further economic branches in the region. Maintaining the facility is of strategic importance for the energy independence and security of the surrounding communities.
- Location: Moldova
- Top sights: Dubasari Dam viewpoit · Dubăsari Dam · Dubăsari Dam's hydroelectrical power plant
- Nearby: Butuceni Historical Village (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 17 | 10 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 33 | 37 | 38 | 53 | 69 | 60 | 37 | 41 | 44 | 40 | 38 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Dubăsari Dam is a significant hydroelectric plant on the Dniester River and a key pillar of energy infrastructure in eastern Moldova. It provides power generation and irrigation.
Visiting
The dam itself is not open to the public, but its surroundings are accessible. From the Dniester riverbanks, there is a good view of the dam wall.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the road crossing the dam, but it is accessible only with permission. Alternatively, the hills above the valley offer panoramic views.
Local products
The reservoir is used for fishing, so regional fish products are available. In the surrounding villages, fruits and vegetables are grown.
Active season
The hydroelectric plant operates year-round, with seasonal water level variations in the Dniester. Peak activity occurs in spring after snowmelt.
Nearby
A visit to the dam can be combined with exploring the town of Dubăsari. The Dniester wine region and monasteries are also suitable for a trip.
Geography
Facts
- Construction period of the dam was 1951 to 1954.
- Installed electrical capacity of 48 MW.
- The length of the dam structure is 400 meters.
- Area of the Dubăsari reservoir is 67.5 km2.
- First major hydroelectric station on the Dniester River.
- Key role in regional flood protection management.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Dubăsari Dam (7)
Cimitirul evreiesc
Jewish cemetery in Dubăsari, a town in Dubossary district in east-central Moldova.
Bunker No 213 TiFR
Ruins of a bunker from the Transnistrian conflict period.
All Saints Church
Church building in Transnistria, dedicated to All Saints.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dubăsari dam accessible to tourists?
The dam is a strategic site; crossing is possible, but photography is often restricted.
What is the importance of the power station?
It is one of Moldova's most important hydroelectric plants, utilizing the power of the Dniester River.
Is there a viewpoint nearby?
From the surrounding hills, you can get a good view of the reservoir and the dam wall.
When was the dam built?
Construction took place in the 1950s during the Soviet era.
Can you fish or swim in the reservoir?
Yes, there are designated areas for recreation, but it's prohibited near the technical facilities.
Dubăsari Dam: where is it located?
Dubăsari Dam is located in Moldova.
Dubăsari Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Dubasari Dam viewpoit, Dubăsari Dam, Dubăsari Dam's hydroelectrical power plant.
Dubăsari Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Dubăsari Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Dubăsari Dam on the Dniester River was constructed between 1951 and 1954 and was the first major hydroelectric power plant in the former Moldavian SSR.
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Cricova
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History & landmarks
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The Chisinau City Hall is a historic monument built in 1901 in a Venetian Gothic style.
Mileștii Mici
Home to the world's largest wine cellar according to Guinness World Records, featuring over 200 kilometers of underground limestone tunnels.
Saharna
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Molovata Cliffs
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Butuceni
An authentic Moldovan village within the Orheiul Vechi complex, famous for its cave monasteries carved into limestone cliffs and traditio…
Old Orhei Cave Monastery
The cave monastery is part of an archaeological complex carved into limestone cliffs overlooking the Răut River.
Trebujeni
A picturesque village in the Răut valley that, along with Butuceni, forms the historical heart of Orheiul Vechi, known for its traditiona…
Jeloboc Spring
Jeloboc Spring is the largest natural water source in Moldova.
Nature
Dubasari Reservoir
This reservoir on the Dniester was created in the 1950s for power generation.
Trebujeni Landscape Reserve
This reserve surrounds the famous Orheiul Vechi complex, protecting the flora and fauna of the Răut river gorges.
Iagorlic Scientific Reserve
Iagorlic is an aquatic reserve located at the mouth of the river of the same name into the Dniester.
Dniester River
The Dniester is the most important waterway in Moldova and shapes the eastern landscape of the country.
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More places
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Răut River Canyon
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Trebujeni Gorge
The Raut river has carved a deep, semi-circular gorge into the limestone here.
Maiac Memorial
A memorial honoring the historical development of the region in the last century.
Grigoriopol Church
Historic church building of the late 19th century.