Gibidum Reservoir, reservoir
Gibidum Reservoir is a dam-fed lake in Valais, held back by an arch dam that rises 122 meters (400 feet) above the valley. The water covers about 0.21 square kilometers and is fed by meltwater from the Aletsch Glacier.
The arch dam was constructed between 1964 and 1967, marking a significant moment in Valais water management. The project emerged to meet growing needs for water storage and hydroelectric power in the mountain region.
The Gibidum Reservoir is shared by residents of Naters and Riederalp, serving as a quiet marker of how the local community lives with mountain resources. The water's presence shapes daily rhythms and connects people to the landscape they inhabit.
The area around the reservoir is crossed by well-maintained trails that offer access to various viewpoints. The site is accessible year-round, though summer offers the best hiking conditions while winter snow covers the higher elevations.
The arch dam construction elegantly fits into the natural curves of the valley walls, showing how engineering can blend with the mountain landscape. This adaptation to the terrain is immediately visible to visitors and demonstrates how human work can harmonize with natural topography.
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