Reflections of a 'lake'
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Most na Soči is a cute little town located on a rocky crest above the confluence of the Soča and Idrijca river. At the heart of it lies an emerald lake, which is one of the town’s focal points. Wearing the same Soča river colour palette, ringed by stands of willow trees and nestled near the entrance of the Triglav national park, it creates a sense of tranquillity and softness. Above it stands an old, crusty bridge connecting both sides of the town. There is life going on at the surface. Kayakers, paddleboarders, fisherman, hikers and photographers are drawn to its chilly, crystalline waters. But many visitors don't realize that the ‘lake’, as it appears today, is a modern touch to the natural landscape. So what secrets lie below the tranquil poetic on the surface?
The natural Atlantida below the lake
It is hard to imagine Most na Soči without its emerald pond of water. Ironically more than 80 years ago the image of the town was completely different. In the past, Most na Soči stood firmly on the steep rocky slopes above Soča and Idrijca river beds. Beautiful gorges were formed and rivers ran at their usual fast pace.
The steep slopes provided excellent natural protection from intruders. It wouldn’t be until 1938 that the area’s landscape would get a makeover with the construction of a new dam. The reservoir lake was built during the Italian occupation for the needs of the hydroelectric power plant in Doblar. 80 acres of water flooded the old river basins. Atlantida. Unless you are a scuba diver, there are very rare opportunities to see the hidden gems. Incognito. But every few years when the lake is emptied in order to repair the dam, the magical shapes pop out on the surface and paint the image of an old landscape.
Three millennia of Most na Soči
Digging deeper. While the bloody events of the First World War overshadowed most of the Soča Valleys history, Most na Soči makes the archaeologist’s heart sing with joy. Why? Because it goes way back to the prehistoric ages. The location is a treasury of exceptional archaeological finds and it has been ranked among one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Europe.
The Iron Age metropolis. The location became famous especially after the discovery of a large necropolis from the Early Iron Age with more than 7,000 gravesites. With findings that are dated between the Late Bronze Age and the Roman period, the whole area is some kind of a cultural landscape, telling stories about a particular time.
Among old graves, equipment and local products, a small pottery vase stands out. It depicts an owl between two olive branches, which symbolizes wisdom. Follow the wise owl on the thematic path Čez Most po modrost (Over the bridge for some wisdom) and try to soak in the stories of a thousand years.
Back to the surface again
A touch of cold water, shiver and return to the present moment. Adventure surrounded by captivating nature and the mystical history below the surface, Most na Soči continues to be a favourite place for boat cruises, kayaking adventures and high jumps in the summertime water. You can climb to one of the lookout points and observe the unfolding of new stories in the water’s reflection.
Are you considering visiting the Soča Valley? Meeting Mountains are local experts and create tailor made visits for those wanting to make the absolute most out of their time. We find your unique and personalised accommodation, avoid tourist traps and bring you to places you’d never find yourself. We combine nature, activities, culinary experiences and genuine local culture to craft unforgettable moments for you. Do you have any questions? Write Johannes, our Founder, or book a free 30 minute appointment for a consultation.
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