Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Station

Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Station is a legendary giant dam, which is located in the heart of Zaporizhzhia, gently curving across the Dnipro riverbed. It is considered to be one of the most striking symbols of the Soviet era, as it promoted industrial development of many Ukrainian regions and cities.

Residents and visitors of the city are delighted with the Dnipro view. Construction of 1300 meters long and 60 meters high is illuminated in yellow-blue colours at night, so that many tourists are impressed with its views. On the territory of Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Station there is the Museum of the DniproHES’ Construction History, where you might hear many interesting stories. You wouldn’t remain indifferent to valuable artifacts, commemorative panels and a diorama of the construction presented in the museum.

Today, Dnipro Hydroelectric Power is the centre of the urban landscape, a beautiful historical and architectural monument. Its construction began in 1927 under the leadership of Alexander Vinter. Thanks to selfless work of thirteen thousand workers, who worked at Dniprostroy, its first unit was launched in 1932.

During the Second World War the dam suffered extensive damage caused by powerful enemy bombardments; therefore equipment of the control room was completely destroyed. The power was reopened only in 1950, and in 1969 construction of the second powerhouse began.

The dam erection rose water level in the river up to 37.5 meters and the water volume of a man made pool was more than 3 billion cubic meters. The dam causes water level difference, and turbines installed in engine rooms produce electricity.

On the top of the dam you can expect a panoramic view of Khortytsya Island, surrounded by small rocky islets and remnants of the Dnipro rapids. Khortytsya is considered to be a cradle of the Ukrainian Cossacks.

During your tour at the hydroelectric plant, you are well advised to visit the Museum of Ukrainian Cossack’s History, located on Khortytsya. According to scientists’ researches, ancient Scythian burials used to be in a burial mound, which is located near the museum. Numerous exhibits are very interesting as they represent history, archeology and culture of Ukrainian lands. In addition, on the island you might notice a column with an inscription that Prince Sviatoslav of Kyiv was murdered at these places. When the prince returned from a campaign in the year of 972, the Pecheneges killed him. It is supposed to be the place of his death.

You are well advised to take a tour in a tourist boat, cruising through the sluice gate from the river harbor to the riverside station of Zaporizhzhia. During this tour you can see the work of DniproHES and enjoy the beautiful Dnipro.