Abstract：The application of hierarchical block element method to the deformation and stability analysis of gravity dam is briefly introduced. By using elasto-viscoplastic hierarchical block element method，the deformation and stability of gravity dam located on complicated rock foundation are analyzed and the calculation results are in favorable agreement with those obtained from physical model tests. The distribution rules of displacement，stress and local safety factor of dam and foundation system are revealed. The comparisons of the results between model tests and numerical calculations show the correctness and validity of elasto-viscoplastic hierarchical block element method illustrated in this paper. Additionally，some practical problems，such as simulations of embedded penstock and seam between dam body and power plant，and evaluation of dam safety，are tentatively explored.
