About Svihov Dam

Švihov Reservoir on the Želivka River is the most strategically critical water source in the Czech Republic, supplying drinking water to Prague and central Bohemia — together serving approximately 1.2 million people. The earthfill dam was completed in 1975, stands 58 metres tall, and holds 267 million cubic metres. Due to its vital role in public water supply, the reservoir operates under strict protection: swimming, boating, and fishing are prohibited throughout the catchment area, which covers nearly 1,800 square kilometres of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. The watershed is managed as a closed zone with controlled farming and no heavy industry permitted. This isolation has allowed the Želivka valley to remain one of the least disturbed river corridors in central Bohemia, supporting thriving populations of otters, kingfishers, and various waterfowl despite its proximity to one of Europe's largest capital cities.