Lake Serre-Ponçon, known as the ‘Sea in the Mountains,’ was formed in 1961, when the Durance River was dammed to help prevent flooding in nearby communities. It’s considered one of the largest manmade lakes in Europe and is a major source of hydroelectric power, irrigation, and tourism. The historic Chapel of St. Michel, established in 1020 and rebuilt in the 17th century, survived the flooding of the valley—but it became an island destination in the process.
Chapel of St. Michel on Lake Serre-Ponçon, Hautes-Alpes, France
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
-
A festival of lights in India
-
In search of roadside attractions on ‘America’s Highway’
-
The old guard at Old San Juan
-
Ukrainian Independence Day
-
D-Day remembered
-
Winter solstice
-
Hay, what s up?
-
It s Tolkien Reading Day
-
Red-leaf hunting in Japan
-
Spread some love with Bing
-
Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany
-
Protecting wildlife today and tomorrow
-
Cue up the tango music
-
Green is the new black
-
A bridge too Fawr
-
Pining for spring
-
Best fronds forever
-
Black History Month
-
Bobbing for crab apples
-
By the light of the fireflies
-
Flamenco dancers
-
Uncommon clouds are gathering
-
International Archaeology Day
-
It s Star Wars Day
-
Celebrating a young girl s age-old discovery
-
Field of Light at Sensorio by Bruce Munro
-
Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, New Mexico
-
East River crossing
-
Citizenship Day and Constitution Day
-
Yosemite National Park turns 132