Suonen are the historical irrigation channels of the Valais. They consist of open ditches that bring the precious and fertile water from the mountain streams - sometimes in an adventurous way - to the dry pastures and fields, vineyards or orchards. Many of the Suonen are still in use today and are carefully maintained. Since the Suonen were very important as a water supply for the cultures and villages and their construction and maintenance was very dangerous, those who worked on them had an important function and a corresponding reputation in the village community. The Suonen sometimes overcome major obstacles such as rock faces or scree slopes, for which special techniques have been developed over the centuries. The Suonen run in the rock faces in wooden channels that are suspended from beams together with a walkway. The beams are wedged in holes that have been cut into the rock. Small water wheels that drive a hammer striking a piece of wood are sometimes used to monitor the flow of water. The hammer blows can be heard over great distances and confirm the flow of water. More irrigation channels have been created on the dry southern slopes than on the northern slopes. Most irrigation channels are 500 m to 2 km long, the longest being the 32 km long Bisse de Saxon.
Text/Source: Brig Simplon Tourismus AG