AUGUSTÓW CHANNEL: HISTORY OF CREATION
The article is devoted to some aspects of Augustów channel history, an artificial waterway linked the basins of the Visla River and the Niemen River. This monument of hydraulic engineering of the 19th century is located on territory of two states: Poland (80 km) and Belarus (22.2 km). Socio-economic reasons of the destination facilities transformation – from the originally planned transport function to a unique tourist attraction – are analyzed. Much attention is paid to building and hydraulic engineering decisions used during construction of this one of the largest European water systems. The channel was built with advanced engineering achievements of the time, it has experienced some tragic moments in its two hundred year history. Modern state of the channel suggests its large recreational and tourism potential.