Aletsch

Aletsch most commonly refers to the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, located in the Bernese Alps of the Swiss canton of Valais. The glacier flows from the high cirques beneath peaks such as the Jungfrau and Aletschhorn and extends roughly 23 kilometers down-valley. Its upper basin includes the large snowfield and ice confluence known as the Konkordiaplatz, where several tributary firns join to form the main ice stream.

The glacier feeds the Massa river and plays an important role in regional hydrology, ecology, and alpine landscapes. Surrounding communities and viewpoints—such as Riederalp, Bettmeralp and the Eggishorn—make the area a popular destination for hikers, skiers and scientific observers. The Jungfrau-Aletsch region was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 in recognition of its outstanding glacial phenomena and mountain environment.

Like many alpine glaciers, the Aletsch has experienced prolonged retreat and mass loss over the 20th and 21st centuries, attracting extensive glaciological research into climate change impacts. Conservation and monitoring efforts aim to document changes in ice volume, length and surface features while balancing visitor access and the protection of fragile alpine ecosystems. The glacier remains an important natural landmark for both scientific study and mountain tourism.