The dilacunary decatungstogermanate [gamma-GeW10O36](8-) (1) has been synthesized and structurally characterized in solution and in the solid state. Reaction of germanium dioxide with sodium tungstate in aqueous acidic medium results in the formation of [beta(2)-GeW11O39](8-) (2), which is then used as a precursor for the synthesis of 1. The W-183 spectrum of 2 shows the expected 11 peaks of equal intensity, whereas that of 1 exhibits the expected three peaks with relative intensities 2:2:1. Polyanion 1 represents a novel lacunary polyoxometalate, giving rise to a multitude of derivatives by reaction with transition metals, lanthanides, and other electrophiles.