Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière

The Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière is a historic windmill located in Mozé-sur-Louet, France.

History

• Believed to date from the late 18th century, this mill has been an integral part of the region's agricultural heritage for centuries.
• The primary function of the Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière was grain milling, a crucial activity in rural France during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Architecture and Construction

This post mill stands approximately 20 meters tall and features a single sail with a diameter of about 6 meters. The mill is constructed from local stone and timber, showcasing traditional Norman architecture.

Original Purpose

• The primary function of the Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière was grain milling, a crucial activity in rural France during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Current Status and Use

The windmill is currently a museum, open to visitors who wish to learn about its history and operation. While it no longer functions as a working mill, it remains an important cultural landmark and testament to the region's industrial past.

Location and Setting

Mozé-sur-Louet is situated in the Normandy region of France, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of the city of Avranches. The windmill stands near the River Louet, which provided a reliable source of water for milling operations.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• The Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière was inscribed on the French list of historic monuments in 1984.
• Ongoing preservation efforts have ensured the mill's structural integrity and continued its role as an educational resource for local communities.

Visiting Information

The Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière is open to visitors by appointment only. Due to its location and historical significance, access may be restricted during certain periods of the year. Visitors are encouraged to contact local authorities or the mill's management team to arrange a visit.

Notable Historical Events and Famous Millers

While specific details regarding notable events or famous millers associated with the Moulin à Vent de la Bigottière are not available, it is known that this windmill played an important role in the region's agricultural development during the 18th and 19th centuries.