Edersee Dam
Hessen
The Edersee Dam, also officially known as Edertalsperre, is a major hydroelectric dam spanning the Eder river near Waldeck in northern Hesse, Germany. Constructed between 1908 and 1914, it was the last significant engineering project of the German Kaiserzeit, designed to regulate water levels for shipping on the Weser river and generate electricity. The dam is 48 meters high and is protected as a historic monument, featuring two historic gate towers and power plant buildings at its base. During World War II, the dam was breached in 1943 by British Lancaster bombers in Operation Chastise, causing massive flooding downstream and significant destruction. It was rebuilt within months using forced labor. Today, the dam creates the Edersee reservoir, one of Germany's largest, which serves as a popular recreational area surrounded by the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park and Nature Park. The reservoir reveals submerged villages and a bridge during low water periods, connecting visitors with the region's history. The dam remains vital for hydroelectric power generation, flood protection, and water management in the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Edersee Dam is during late summer when low water levels reveal the remnants of submerged villages, offering a unique historical perspective. Visitors are advised to check water levels in advance and consider purchasing tickets or tours ahead during peak tourist seasons. The surrounding Kellerwald-Edersee National Park provides excellent hiking and nature activities, making combined visits highly recommended. Discounts may be available for groups and families. Access is facilitated by nearby towns such as Waldeck and Vöhl, with visitor information centers providing practical guidance.
Interesting facts
- •The dam was breached by British Lancaster bombers in 1943 during Operation Chastise, creating a 70-meter wide and 22-meter deep breach.
- •The resulting flood wave reached up to 8 meters high and traveled 30 kilometers downstream, causing widespread destruction and about 70 fatalities.
- •The dam was rebuilt within months during World War II using forced labor from the Atlantic Wall construction.
- •The Edersee reservoir is the third largest in Germany with a capacity of approximately 199 million cubic meters.
- •During low water levels, remnants of three submerged villages and a bridge from before the reservoir's creation can be seen.
- •The 1955 film 'The Dam Busters' dramatizes the British attack on the dam.
History
The Edersee Dam was constructed from 1908 to 1914 as the final major project of the German Kaiserzeit to support inland navigation and hydroelectric power.
In May 1943, it was famously breached by British forces during Operation Chastise, causing catastrophic flooding downstream.
Despite wartime challenges, the dam was rapidly rebuilt by forced labor under the Organisation Todt.
Post-war, it has continued to serve as a crucial water management and energy facility.
Over time, the reservoir has become a key recreational and ecological area, integrating with the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park.
Place Guide
Historic Dam Wall and Gate Towers1914
The 48-meter high dam wall is notable for its historic architecture, including two original gate towers that have been preserved as protected monuments. Visitors can appreciate the engineering feat and the aesthetic design of early 20th-century dam construction.
Hydroelectric Power Stations1914
Located at the base of the dam, these power plants utilize the water flow to generate electricity, contributing to regional energy supply. The facilities highlight early hydroelectric technology still in operation today.
Edersee Reservoir and Submerged Villages
The reservoir formed by the dam is a major recreational area. During periods of low water, visitors can see the remains of the villages Asel, Bringhausen, and Berich, which were flooded when the dam was filled. This unique sight connects visitors to the local history and heritage.
Kellerwald-Edersee National Park
Surrounding the dam and reservoir, this national park offers rich biodiversity, hiking trails, and scenic views, making it a complementary attraction for visitors to the dam area.
