Aswan High Dam

The Aswan High Dam was built in 1970 across the River Nile to the south of Aswan. The aim was to control the Nile flooding every year and provide hydro electric power for Egypt. Since the dam was built, it has had a significant impact on both the economy and culture of the country.

It is an impressive piece of engineering at over 3,800 metres in length and 111 metres tall. The construction of the dam also created Lake Nasser, the largest man made lake in the world. The lake is over 300 miles long and at the far end is the Temple of Abu Simbel. This magnificent temple had to be relocated to save it from the rising waters.

There are a number of benefits as a result of the Aswan High Dam. Flood control means that the effects of periodic floods and droughts can be better controlled. The navigation of the River Nile has been improved and a new fishing industry has been created on Lake Nasser.