INTERLOCKING AND SECURABLE RETAINING WALL BLOCK AND SYSTEM
Retaining wall blocks, retaining wall system formed thereby, and method for manufacturing the retaining wall blocks. The blocks are adapted for assembly to form a retaining wall system. A block of an upper row is laterally positioned by positioning it on top of two lower blocks. Each block also includes at least one mounting surface for securing a stabilizing element therewith. The mounting surface can be embodied as a groove which is inset into the upper surface of the blocks. Each block may additionally include opposing front and back body portions, and opposing side body portions, defining a void therein. The blocks may include aligning elements extending upwardly from an upper surface of the block body. The aligning elements of the lower blocks fit into the void of the upper block and assist in aligning the upper block on the lower blocks and, optionally, in securing a reinforcing structure placed between the layers. The wall, which may be either straight or curved, includes a plurality of blocks stacked in one or more rows. The aligning elements fit into the void and perform the aligning and reinforcing function in straight rows and when the rows curve to form a curved retaining wall. When the wall is assembled, anchoring elements may be placed throughout the wall by attaching an end of the anchoring element to the stabilizing element, while securing another end of the anchoring element to another stable surface, such as the ground.