El Ama

A Historic Windmill in Spain

History

• El Ama is a historic windmill located in Herencia, Spain.
• The exact construction year of El Ama is not certain, but it is believed to date from the 18th century.
• This mill was originally built as a post mill, a type of tower mill that stands alone.

Architecture and Construction Materials

• El Ama features a traditional Spanish windmill design with a wooden frame and a stone foundation.
• The mill's exterior walls are constructed from local limestone, while the roof is made of terracotta tiles.
• The post mill has two floors: the lower floor contains the machinery, including the grinding stones, while the upper floor serves as living quarters for the miller.

Original Purpose

El Ama was built to grind grain into flour, a common purpose for many windmills in Spain during this time period.

Current Status and Use

El Ama is currently a ruin, although it has been preserved and protected by local authorities.

The mill's machinery and grinding stones are no longer functional, but the building remains an important part of Herencia's history and cultural heritage.

Location and Setting

The windmill stands on the Camino de San Cristobal in Herencia, Spain.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby town of Herencia providing a charming backdrop to the mill's historic presence.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

El Ama has been designated as a protected historical monument by local authorities, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

While the mill itself is no longer functional, it remains an important part of Spain's cultural heritage, attracting visitors interested in history and architecture.

Visiting Information

El Ama is open to the public, although access may be limited due to its condition as a ruin.

Visitors can view the windmill from the outside or explore the surrounding area on foot.

Guided tours are not available at this time, but local authorities may offer special events or exhibitions in the future.

Notable Historical Events

El Ama has played an important role in Herencia's history, particularly during times of agricultural abundance when grain was abundant and flour production was a vital industry.

Technical Details

No technical details are available for El Ama due to its current state as a ruin.