Enguri Dam: the colossal Soviet engineering feat in Georgia

In northwestern Georgia, where the Enguri River rushes furiously down from the mountains of Svaneti, stands one of the most impressive structures built in the 20th century: the Enguri Dam. At 271 metres tall, it is the second highest arch dam in the world and a feat of Soviet engineering that still generates 40% of all Georgia's electricity today.

Presa de Enguri Georgia — presa arco 271 metros ingeniería soviética
The Enguri Dam, at 271 metres, is one of the great engineering works of the 20th century

History and construction: from Soviet project to energy pillar

Construction began in 1961, at the height of the Soviet technological race, and was completed in 1987 after 26 years of work. The project was one of the greatest hydraulic engineering challenges of its era: building a maximum-height concrete arch dam in a zone of high seismicity and extreme weather conditions.

The hydroelectric plant has a capacity of 1,300 megawatts and is Georgia's most important energy infrastructure. Its strategic importance is such that even during the conflicts with Abkhazia (the separatist region downstream) both sides have maintained joint management agreements to guarantee the electricity supply.

Lake Jvari: the dam's reservoir

The dam created Lake Jvari, a 40-km-long reservoir whose arms reach into mountain valleys, creating a unique landscape of water, forest and snow. The lake has transformed the local ecosystem and now offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

embalse montaña Georgia — lago de Jvari presa Enguri Svaneti
The reservoir created by the dam extends through the mountain valleys of Svaneti

How to visit the Enguri Dam

The dam is on the road from Zugdidi to Mestia (Svaneti), about 70 km from Zugdidi. Travellers heading to Svaneti by car or marshrutka inevitably cross it and can stop at the designated viewpoints. Access to the internal installations of the power plant is not permitted without authorisation.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Enguri Dam important for Georgia?

The dam produces approximately 40% of all Georgia's electricity, making it absolutely fundamental to the country's economy and daily life. Without it, Georgia would be far more dependent on energy imports.

What is the exact height of the Enguri Dam?

271.5 metres. It is the world's second highest concrete arch dam, surpassed only by the Mauvoisin Dam in Switzerland (250 m for the main structure) and some more recently built Chinese dams.

Can you visit the interior of the Enguri power plant?

The power plant is not open to general tourism. From the roadside viewpoints you can see the dam from above or below. Some specialist tours organise guided visits with access to restricted areas, with prior authorisation.