The Aswan High Dam in Egypt: History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
The Aswan High Dam is a major engineering feat located in Egypt. Completed in 1970, the dam is located in the Nile River Valley and is one of the largest embankment dams in the world. It has had a major impact on the economy, ecology, and culture of Egypt. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Aswan High Dam, some amazing facts about it, and some of the things you can do when visiting the dam.
History of the Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam was first proposed in 1902 by the British government, who wanted to build a dam in the Nile River Valley to create a reservoir of water for irrigation. However, the project was abandoned due to financial and political issues. The idea was revived in the 1950s by Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser, who wanted to use the dam to generate electricity and to control flooding in the region. Construction of the dam began in 1960 and was completed in 1970.
The dam was built with the help of the Soviet Union, and its construction was a major source of tension between Egypt and the United States. The Aswan High Dam has had a major impact on the economy and ecology of Egypt. It has helped to create jobs and increase agricultural production, and it has also helped to control flooding in the region.
Amazing Facts About the Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam is one of the largest embankment dams in the world. It is 3,830 meters long and 111 meters high, and it has a capacity of 58.5 million cubic meters of water. The dam is also one of the most important sources of electricity in Egypt, generating over 10,000 megawatts of power.
The dam has also had a major impact on the ecology of the region. It has created a large reservoir of water, which is used for irrigation and to support the fishing industry. It has also created a large lake, Lake Nasser, which is home to a variety of wildlife.
Things to Do at the Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam is a popular tourist destination in Egypt. Visitors can explore the dam itself, as well as the nearby Lake Nasser. There are also a variety of activities to enjoy, including fishing, boating, and bird-watching.
Visitors can also explore the nearby temples and monuments, such as the Temple of Isis at Philae and the Temple of Horus at Edfu. There are also a variety of museums and cultural sites to explore, such as the Nubian Museum and the High Dam Museum.
The Aswan High Dam is a remarkable engineering feat that has had a major impact on the economy, ecology, and culture of Egypt. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of Egypt.