Moulin de Gibert

A Historic Windmill in Les Cassés, France

History

• The Moulin de Gibert is a historic windmill located in Les Cassés, a town in the south of France.
• The mill's history dates back to the 17th century, with its construction believed to have taken place around 1650.
• Over the years, the mill has undergone several transformations and repairs, but it remains one of the most well-preserved windmills in the region.

Architecture

The Moulin de Gibert is a smock mill, characterized by its distinctive tower and single sail.

• The mill's architecture is typical of 17th-century French windmills, with a sturdy stone foundation and a wooden frame supporting the tower.
• The mill's sails are made of wood, and the grinding stones are believed to have been replaced several times over the years.

Original Purpose

The Moulin de Gibert was originally built as a grain mill, with its primary function being to grind wheat and other grains for local farmers.

• The mill's location near a major road made it an ideal spot for milling, as it could serve multiple communities in the surrounding area.

Current Status and Use

Today, the Moulin de Gibert is no longer used for its original purpose, but it has been preserved as a historic monument.

• The mill is operated by the Musée des Arts et Métiers (Museum of Arts and Crafts), which has undertaken several restoration projects to ensure the mill's stability and preservation.

Location and Setting

The Moulin de Gibert is situated in the heart of Les Cassés, near the town's main road.

• The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and fields, with the mill standing proudly as a testament to France's rich milling heritage.
• The nearby D 191 road provides easy access to the mill.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Moulin de Gibert has been designated as a historic monument (Monument Historique) since 1961, recognizing its importance in French cultural heritage.

• The Musée des Arts et Métiers has undertaken several restoration projects over the years, including a major renovation in 2010 that ensured the mill's stability and preservation.

Visiting Information

The Moulin de Gibert is open to the public, with guided tours available during peak season.

• Visitors can explore the mill's interior, learn about its history and operation, and see the grinding stones up close.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

While there is no record of famous millers associated with the Moulin de Gibert, the mill has played an important role in the local community for centuries.

• The mill's preservation as a historic monument has ensured that future generations can appreciate its significance in French cultural heritage.

Technical Details

The Moulin de Gibert features one sail and one grinding stone, with a total height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).

• The mill's wooden frame is supported by a sturdy stone foundation, and the sails are made of traditional wood.