Moulin de Bel Air

The Moulin de Bel Air is a historic windmill located in La Rabatelière, France.

History

• Construction of the mill began in 1850 and was completed by 1855.
• The mill served as a grain mill during its operational years.

Architecture

The Moulin de Bel Air is a smock mill with a single tower.

It features a traditional French windmill design, typical of those found in the region.

The mill's structure is made from local stone and wood.

Location

The Moulin de Bel Air is situated on La Salette, in the town of La Rabatelière.

The surrounding landscape offers views of the nearby countryside.

Water from a nearby stream powers the mill's mechanism.

Current Status and Use

The Moulin de Bel Air is currently a working mill, although its primary function has shifted over time.

It continues to operate as a functional windmill, albeit with limited grain milling capabilities.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Moulin de Bel Air is recognized for its historical significance and has been designated as a protected monument in France.

Efforts have been made to preserve the mill's original structure and maintain its operational status.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the Moulin de Bel Air by appointment, although public tours are not currently available.

Due to its working nature, visitors must be accompanied by a guide or authorized personnel at all times.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

The Moulin de Bel Air has been in operation for over 160 years and has played a significant role in the local agricultural community.

Although no specific notable miller is recorded, the mill's history reflects the dedication of its operators to preserving traditional milling practices.

Technical Details

The Moulin de Bel Air features one windmill sail with a diameter of approximately 10 meters.

The grinding stones used for grain milling are made from local limestone and have a capacity of around 200 kilograms per hour.