The purpose of this research is to give an overview of the main principles in the construction of earth-fill dams. To understand the building and its function, at the beginning of this paper an outline of the dam`s history is given, followed by a detailed analysis of everything that precedes its upbuilding, which includes describing its parts, types, and construction purpose. In this paper, the conditions that the construction site must meet are also discussed, such as hydrological conditions and seepage through and below the dam. Furthermore, the process of building filled earth dams is explained and the building materials that are adequate for its construction are described. At the end of the paper, the course of the compaction of material in the embankment and near the accompanying buildings is described, with an emphasis on the help of, today increasingly present, compaction machinery. In closing words, the author considers the importance of the control and monitoring, factors of the dam`s construction and maintenance on which its success and longevity largely depend.