Lag da Pigniu, body of water
Lag da Pigniu is a small reservoir in the Swiss region of Grisons, surrounded by mountains and forests at an elevation of around 4,700 feet (1,450 meters). The water is held back by a gravity dam about 174 feet (53 meters) long that collects streams from the slopes, with a surface area covering about 40 hectares.
The reservoir was built between 1980 and 1990 and has been generating electricity for the region since completion over three decades ago. In 1999, an artist named Martin Valär painted the dam wall with a large mural depicting the historic retreat of the Russian army under General Suvorov from about 200 years prior.
The name refers to the village of Pigniu below the reservoir, where people have lived in this mountain landscape for generations. Visitors today see a large mural painted on the dam wall in 1999 that depicts a historic military retreat, showing how art and local identity come together at this site.
A simple walking trail circles the reservoir and is suitable for families and casual visitors, with a complete loop taking about an hour. There are no large facilities nearby, so bring water and snacks along with warm layers, as the high elevation and mountain winds can change the weather quickly.
The dam wall was painted in 1999 by artist Martin Valär in a project taking about 25 days, showing Russian soldiers under General Suvorov depicted as chess pieces, with Suvorov himself symbolized as a blue tower. The artwork was created with special paints and materials designed to withstand sun, rain, and wind so visitors can enjoy it for many years to come.
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