The Sunken Tower of Reschensee – A Hidden Story Above the Surface

A Tower Rising from the Deep

In the serene, emerald waters of Lake Resia (Reschensee), tucked away in the South Tyrolean Alps near the borders of Austria and Switzerland, a lonely stone tower rises out of the lake. It’s not just a scenic oddity — it’s the last visible remnant of the village of Curon (Graun), a community that was quite literally drowned in the name of progress.

---

A Personal Visit in September 2023

I had the chance to visit this hauntingly beautiful place in September 2023, during a road trip to a Geocaching Megaevent in Austria. Standing by the lake, seeing the 14th-century church tower piercing the water’s surface, was an experience I won’t soon forget. It's striking how this single structure has been preserved while everything else disappeared beneath the waves — and it’s visible from nearly every angle of the surrounding area.

---

Caching by the Lake and the Hills

Naturally, I couldn’t resist checking out a few geocaches in the area. One was placed conveniently near the lake, while another required a short uphill hike to a lovely little chapel overlooking the valley. The views were well worth the extra effort — and added an extra layer of meaning to the day.

---

The Tragic History Beneath the Surface

The backstory, though, is sobering. In 1950, the valley was intentionally flooded to create a reservoir for hydroelectric power. Over 150 families were displaced, and more than 160 homes and buildings were demolished. Everything was cleared away — except the iconic church tower, which was left standing as a stark reminder of what once was.

It’s a powerful example of how energy production, even today, often comes with difficult trade-offs for both people and the environment.

---

Legends, Ice, and Echoes from the Past

In winter, when the lake freezes over, you can actually walk out to the tower on foot. And according to local legend, the bells — long removed — can still be heard ringing from beneath the ice.

---

When the Village Resurfaced

In 2021, during maintenance work, the lake was partially drained — and for the first time in over 70 years, the ruins of the original village reappeared. Old walls, cellars, and staircases emerged from the depths, offering a rare and moving glimpse into a world that vanished.

---

A Landmark of Loss and Endurance

Today, the tower has become a symbol — not only of loss, but also of endurance. It’s a favorite photo spot for travelers and a must-see waypoint for any geocacher passing through the region. It’s even been featured in the eerie Netflix series “Curon”, which blends real history with supernatural mystery.