Kannaviou Dam

The Kannaviou Dam, located in Paphos, Cyprus, is a must-visit attraction for tourists who are interested in witnessing the engineering marvels of the country. This dam is the fourth largest in Cyprus, and the third largest in the Paphos district, with a total capacity of 17.2 million cubic meters of water. The dam’s height is 70 meters, the length is 600 meters, and the total capacity is 1.8 million m3. One of the unique features of the Kannaviou Dam is that it is made of rock fill with an upstream plate (CFRD). This feature has special importance to the water balance of the water managing program in Cyprus. In fact, it is the first dam of its kind to be built in Cyprus. The innovative techniques used for its construction have garnered significant interest in the engineering community. The Kannaviou Dam project began in September of 2000 and was completed successfully in March of 2006. The water storage in the reservoir, which has a capacity of 18 million cubic meters, began in October of 2005. The construction of the dam was carried out by the Greek companies AEGEK, CYBARCO, and Iacovou Brothers, while the project was designed by the British company Howard Humphreys and Partners in cooperation with the Cypriot company I. Theofilou and Associates. The dam is situated near the village of Kannaviou, which is around a 30-minute drive from Paphos. To get to the dam from Paphos, visitors can take the Polis Chrysochous road and turn right towards Polemi for ten minutes before reaching the village of Stroumbi. The Kannaviou Dam is not only a marvel of engineering but also a beautiful tourist spot. The water reservoir and the surrounding areas offer picturesque views and excellent opportunities for photography. The serene atmosphere of the dam attracts many visitors who are seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Kannaviou Dam also serves an essential purpose in Cyprus. The dam's water is used for irrigation, providing water to the villages, and generating electricity. The water from the dam is used to irrigate the nearby vineyards and orchards, making it an essential resource for agriculture in the region. The electricity generated from the dam's hydroelectric power plant is a significant source of power for the country. Visitors to the Kannaviou Dam can also participate in various recreational activities, such as fishing and boating. The dam is stocked with various fish species, including carp, trout, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can rent boats and explore the vast reservoir, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. In conclusion, the Kannaviou Dam is a fascinating attraction that combines engineering marvel with natural beauty. Its unique design and innovative construction techniques make it a must-visit destination for engineering enthusiasts, while its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities make it an ideal spot for a day trip from Paphos. Whether you are interested in the engineering marvels of the dam or seeking a serene escape from city life, the Kannaviou Dam is a must-visit attraction in Cyprus.