This 1957 postcard depicts the V.I. Lenin Dnieper Lock in Zaporizhzhia, a crucial component of the DniproHES hydroelectric complex, facilitating navigation on the Dnieper River.
What is shown on the postcard
The black-and-white image captures a passenger vessel traversing the lock chamber. The ship’s sides are adorned with flags, and numerous people are visible on its upper deck. Above the lock, a bridge structure with two distinctive towers on its ends can be seen, with people moving along it, observing the locking process. The massive walls of the lock and the arched spans of the bridge are visible. In the distance, the open lock gates are discernible.
Historical note
The Dnieper Lock was constructed as part of the Dnieper Hydroelectric Station (DniproHES) between 1927 and 1932. Its creation was one of the largest engineering projects of its time in the USSR, designed to ensure uninterrupted navigation along the Dnieper River, bypassing its famous rapids. The lock, named after V.I. Lenin, became a symbol of industrialization and technical progress. During World War II, the lock, like the entire power station, was severely damaged and subsequently rebuilt in the post-war years.
Present day
Today, the Dnieper Lock in Zaporizhzhia continues to operate actively, serving as an important part of Ukraine’s transport infrastructure. It allows vessels to pass between the upper and lower pools of the Dnieper, supporting river navigation. The lock remains an integral part of DniproHES, which retains its significance as a source of electricity and a key facility for regulating the river’s water regime.
Location (map)
Address: DniproHES Complex, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine
Coordinates: 47.876700, 35.074000
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: GPS coordinates of the Dnieper Lock in Zaporizhzhia..
Questions and answers
- When was the Dnieper Lock built? The Dnieper Lock was built as part of DniproHES between 1927 and 1932.
- What is the purpose of the Dnieper Lock? The primary purpose of the lock is to ensure uninterrupted navigation along the Dnieper River, overcoming its natural rapids.
- Does the Dnieper Lock operate today? Yes, the Dnieper Lock in Zaporizhzhia continues to operate actively, serving as an important part of Ukraine’s transport infrastructure.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Zaporizhzhia from 1957.
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