The dam was built specifically as a direct response to the devastating flood of July 1897, which claimed lives and destroyed property in the Jelenia Góra valley.
It is a 'dry dam,' which means it is permanently open and designed to hold water only during flood surges.
The masonry is constructed from local granite, consistent with the geological composition of the Karkonosze mountains.
The structure is classified as a historical hydraulic engineering monument due to its age and preservation status.
Despite being a flood control site, it is a registered tourist trail landmark managed by the Wody Polskie authority.
The Łomnica Reservoir is a historical stone dam constructed between 1910 and 1915 following the catastrophic flood of 1897. Located in Karpacz, the structure stands 105 meters long and 16 meters high, designed to regulate the Łomnica mountain stream. It serves as a dry reservoir, meaning it typically remains empty, only retaining water during extreme weather events to protect the town downstream. The dam features a decorative, rugged stone masonry exterior that integrates into the surrounding Karkonosze mountain landscape. A pedestrian path runs along the top of the dam, offering views of the valley and the stream below. It serves as a primary flood control mechanism for the city of Karpacz. The site remains a functional piece of hydraulic engineering infrastructure rather than a recreational swimming lake.
The center of the dam crest looking back toward the mountain backdrop.
Walk the entire length of the dam crest for views of both the Karkonosze peaks and the town valley.
Wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan to descend into the basin area, as the terrain is uneven and rocky.
Visit during the spring melt or after heavy rainfall to see the flood prevention mechanisms in a more active, albeit restrained, state.
Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir basin if water has accumulated, as currents and debris make it hazardous.
