The dam's construction involved the excavation and pouring of over 1.6 million cubic meters of concrete.
The reservoir capacity of Lake Izvorul Muntelui reaches 1.25 billion cubic meters at maximum flood level.
The project forced the submerging of 18 villages, some of which had historical significance dating back to the medieval era.
The Stejaru hydroelectric plant, fed by the dam, was the first major power project of its kind in Romania's post-WWII industrialization plan.
Underwater, the remains of submerged houses and church foundations can still be identified by sonar mapping during periods of low water levels.
Bicaz Dam, known as the Izvorul Muntelui Dam, is a massive concrete gravity dam located on the Bistrița River in the Eastern Carpathians. Completed in 1961, it stands 127 meters high and creates the largest artificial lake in Romania, Lake Izvorul Muntelui. The dam serves a dual purpose: hydroelectric power generation through the Stejaru Power Station and flood control for the Bistrița valley. The structure itself is 435 meters long at its crest, providing a viewing platform over the reservoir and the downstream gorge. Its construction necessitated the relocation of several villages and over 2,000 households from the valley floor. The lake stretches approximately 35 kilometers in length and covers a surface area of about 33 square kilometers. It acts as a critical node in Romania's national energy grid.
The center point of the dam's crest looking west toward the reservoir and the Ceahlău Mountain backdrop.
Walk across the top of the dam for the best vantage point of the transition between the vast reservoir and the narrow gorge below.
Bring binoculars if visiting in spring or autumn to spot birds of prey that frequent the surrounding mountain cliffs.
Plan to visit the nearby harbor areas to board small excursion boats that operate on the lake during the warmer months.
Do not attempt to access the restricted industrial zones or the hydroelectric plant infrastructure, which are strictly off-limits to the public.
