Moinho da Fonte do Sol

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol is a historic windmill located in Palmela, Portugal.

History

• The mill's construction year is not explicitly stated, but it is believed to date from the 18th century.

Architecture and Construction

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol is a type of smock mill, characterized by its simple, unadorned design. The mill features a single sail, which is typically painted in bright colors to enhance visibility.

• The grinding stones are not specified, but it is likely that the mill used traditional Portuguese stone querns.

Original Purpose

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol was originally built as a windmill for grain milling purposes. Its primary function was to grind grains into flour for local consumption.

Current Status and Use

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol is currently a working mill, although its operation is limited due to the increasing use of mechanized mills in the region.

• The mill has been restored and maintained by local authorities, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Location and Setting

The mill is situated on Trilho da Quinta do Moinho Velho, in the heart of Palmela. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby Fonte do Sol stream providing a source of water for the mill's operation.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol is recognized as an important cultural heritage site by local authorities. Efforts have been made to preserve the mill's original architecture and maintain its operational integrity, ensuring its continued use for traditional grain milling purposes.

Visiting Information

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol is open to the public, offering guided tours and demonstrations of traditional milling techniques. Visitors can also explore the surrounding landscape, which features scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

Unfortunately, no notable historical events or famous millers are recorded for this specific windmill.

Technical Details

The Moinho da Fonte do Sol features a single sail, with an unspecified number of grinding stones. The mill's machinery is traditional in design and operation, utilizing manual labor to power its grinding stones.