Kudrynki Lock

The Kudrynki Lock, the fourteenth lock on the Augustów Canal, is located at the 77.4 km mark of this unique waterway. It was constructed between 1828 and 1829 based on a design by Edward Tadeusz Bieliński and Michał Horain. This architectural gem, with a water level difference of 2.27 meters, measures 43.4 meters in length and 5.94 meters in width, making it part of an impressive hydrotechnical system that played a key role in 19th-century water transport. The lock is equipped with wooden gates, giving it a rustic charm that blends functionality with aesthetics. Historically, the lock was out of service from the end of World War II until a comprehensive renovation was carried out between 2005 and 2008, restoring it to its former glory. Kudrynki has witnessed the economic development of the region as well as the political and social changes that have taken place over the years. The lock is a significant part of cultural heritage, attracting tourists interested not only in navigation but also in the history of water engineering and environmental conservation. An interesting fact is that the Augustów Canal, on which Kudrynki is located, is one of the few examples of modern hydrotechnical engineering, adding to the site's unique significance. The Kudrynki Lock not only connects various water bodies but also preserves the traditions of the region, serving as part of a tourist trail that highlights the area's natural and cultural values.