Molí de Joan Bel

The Molí de Joan Bel is a historic watermill located in la Pobla de Benifassà, Spain.

History

• The mill's construction year is not explicitly stated, but it is believed to date from the 16th century.
• The Molí de Joan Bel is an overshot wheel mill, indicating that it uses a horizontal wheel with a vertical axis to lift water from a lower elevation to power its machinery.

Architecture

The Molí de Joan Bel is an overshot wheel mill, indicating that it uses a horizontal wheel with a vertical axis to lift water from a lower elevation to power its machinery. This type of mill was commonly used in medieval Europe for grain milling and other industrial purposes.

The mill's architecture features a traditional Catalan-style building design, with a rectangular main body and a smaller tower attached to the rear. The exterior walls are constructed from stone, while the roof is made of terracotta tiles. A wooden bridge spans the nearby river, providing access to the mill's machinery.

Original Purpose

The primary purpose of the Molí de Joan Bel was for grain milling. Water from the nearby river was used to power a series of grinding stones, which processed grains into flour.

Current Status and Use

The Molí de Joan Bel is currently a museum, open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore the mill's machinery and learn about its history and significance in Catalan culture.

Location and Setting

The mill is situated near the river Boixar, which provides a reliable source of water power. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby town of la Pobla de Benifassà visible in the distance.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Molí de Joan Bel has been recognized as a cultural heritage site in Spain, with efforts made to preserve its historic machinery and architecture. The mill has undergone several restorations over the years, including a major renovation in 2010.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the Molí de Joan Bel by car or on foot via the nearby bridge. Guided tours are available in Catalan and Spanish, with English-speaking guides also available upon request. The mill is open to visitors from April to October, with limited hours during the winter months.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

Unfortunately, no notable historical events or famous millers are recorded for the Molí de Joan Bel.

Technical Details

The Molí de Joan Bel features a single overshot wheel, with a diameter of approximately 3 meters. The grinding stones used in the mill date back to the 17th century and are still operational today.