Grande Dixence Dam
Wallis
The Grande Dixence Dam is a monumental concrete gravity dam located in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, standing at 285 meters tall, making it the tallest gravity dam globally and the tallest dam in Europe. Constructed between 1950 and 1961, it forms the Lac des Dix reservoir, which is the second largest lake in Valais and the largest alpine lake above 2,000 meters, covering 4 square kilometers. The dam plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation, fueling four power stations with a combined capacity of 2,069 MW, producing around 2,000 GWh annually, enough electricity for approximately 400,000 Swiss households. Water is sourced from glaciers and multiple pumping stations, including Z’Mutt, Stafel, Ferpècle, and Arolla, and transferred through an extensive tunnel network. The dam's massive structure contains about 6 million cubic meters of concrete and is secured by a grout curtain deep into the valley's foundation. It is part of the Cleuson-Dixence Complex, which includes additional dams and power stations that enhance energy production. The dam’s crest is situated at 2,365 meters altitude, providing impressive alpine views. The original Dixence dam, now submerged beneath Lac des Dix, and the related Chandoline Power Station remain operational. The dam’s construction was a significant engineering feat of its time and was captured in the documentary "Opération béton" by Jean-Luc Godard. Its operation is closely linked to seasonal glacier melt, with the reservoir filling by late September and drawing down by April.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during late summer or early autumn when the reservoir is at its fullest, offering spectacular views. Advance planning is recommended as tours may require booking. While no specific ticket prices are noted, discounts might be available for groups or educational visits. The site is accessible for tourists interested in engineering marvels and alpine scenery. Checking local visitor center information prior to arrival can enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •At 285 meters, Grande Dixence is the tallest gravity dam in the world and the tallest dam in Europe.
- •The dam’s reservoir, Lac des Dix, is the largest lake above 2,000 meters in the Alps.
- •The dam contains approximately 6 million cubic meters of concrete, making it one of the largest concrete structures in the world.
- •The original Dixence dam was submerged under Lac des Dix but can still be seen when water levels are low.
- •Jean-Luc Godard made his directorial debut with a short documentary about the dam's construction titled "Opération béton."
History
The Grande Dixence Dam's development began with Energie Ouest Suisse acquiring rights to the upper Dixence basin in 1927.
The original Dixence dam was constructed between 1929 and 1935, supplying the Chandoline Power Station.
Post-World War II industrial growth led to the construction of the Cleuson Dam (1947-1951).
The current Grande Dixence Dam, also known as the Super Dixence, was built from 1950 to 1961, involving 3,000 workers and 6 million cubic meters of concrete.
It was the world's tallest dam upon completion but was surpassed in height by the Nurek Dam in 1972.
The dam remains the tallest gravity dam worldwide.
In the 1980s, the Cleuson-Dixence project expanded the complex, doubling power output with new tunnels and the Bieudron Power Station.
The dam’s construction was notable enough to inspire Jean-Luc Godard’s documentary "Opération béton."
Place Guide
Dam Structure1950-1961
The dam is a 285 m high and 700 m long concrete gravity structure, 200 m wide at its base and 15 m wide at the crest, reaching an altitude of 2,365 m. It is secured by a grout curtain extending 200 m deep into the valley foundation.
Lac des Dix Reservoir
This 4 km² alpine lake is the second largest in Valais and the largest above 2,000 m in the Alps. It stores up to 400 million cubic meters of water sourced from glaciers and pumped from surrounding rivers.
Cleuson-Dixence Complex1980s (expansion)
An integrated hydroelectric system including the Grande Dixence Dam, Cleuson Dam, and four power stations (Chandoline, Fionnay, Nendaz, Bieudron), collectively producing over 2,000 MW of power.
Chandoline Power Station1935 (original dam completion)
Originally powered by the first Dixence Dam, this station now operates with water from Lac des Dix, generating 120 MW using five Pelton turbines with a gross head of 1,748 m.
