The next time you feel like cooling down in Abruzzo you might decide against the Adriatic and head to the lakes instead.
Looking down from Colledimezzo you can see the shimmering waters of Lago di Bomba.
What does the word “Bomba” conjure up for you?
Well a quick trip there (between visits to Roccascalegna and Colledimezzo) turned into a very restful and relaxing few hours.
I hadn’t really thought about spending a day by the Abruzzo lakes, but after this visit, detours to the lakes of Abruzzo will be high on my list.
It isn’t a natural lake. It was created as part of the process of damning the Sangro River back in the 1950s. For those of you who like the details, this comes from the Comume di Bomba site:
The dam built across the Sangro River marks the origin of Bomba´s Lake. The dike was made in beaten earth, (the first of its kind in Europe) and it produces electricity which is dispatched in Rome. The building was begun in 1956 and finished in 1962. The lake is almost 7 kilometres in length, 1.5 km wide and 57.50 metres deep and, its water capacity is 4 million cubic metres.
It’s a great spot for fishing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, walking and if you are like me – sitting, breathing and just being (perhaps not an “active” pursuit).
After my visit to Lago di Bomba I did a little research and discovered that there’s a threat hanging over this idyllic location. It appears that an oil company from the US are eyeing possible reserves located right by the lake.
This seems very odd to me as this manmade lake is in an area considered to be of significant seismic activity. Remember that it’s less than three years since there was a devastating earthquake in L’Aquila, not very far away.
What does the word “Bomba” conjure up for you?
You can learn more about this controversial plan on Ticking Oil Bomb over Bomba.
Lago di Bomba may not be a natural lake but that doesn’t matter. It’s become a place of beauty that supports the ecosystem and is a source of great enjoyment for locals and many tourists who are lucky enough to experience it.
I hope that continues.
