Cascate delle Marmore, Italy by Zumzum

Initially built as am means of reducing the threat of malaria back in 271 B.C., the Cascate delle Marmore was formed when a canal was created to drain the wetlands over the edge of the cliffs. The flood waters drained into the Nera River which can be found at the bottom of the cliffs. The falls are now a very popular tourist attraction in the area.

The Cascate delle Marmore can be found about 8 kilometers from the city of Terni. The falls are fed by the Velino River which also flows through the nearby hydroelectric power station. The flow of water through the Cascate delle Marmore is controlled based on a preset schedule. This is so that the tourists can still marvel at the falls, while not overly affecting the power generation of the plant. Most tourists to the area make their plans ahead of schedule to ensure they are there the moment the gates are opened and the water starts gushing down the Cascate delle Marmore.

Built back in 1929, the Galleto power plant is fed by Piediluco Lake and produces 530 megawatts of power for the cities around the area. During the slow times of the day, when power generation is not as important, the falls are turned on. This occurs daily between noon and 1 as well as between 4 and 5 in the afternoon.

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