Fixed stone mill in Manadas, Alhadeiras.

Category: Civil Architecture > Windmill

District: Açores > Velas > Manadas > Fajã das Almas

Location

The fixed stone Mill in Manadas, Alhadeiras, is serenely situated on the picturesque island of São Jorge, an integral part of the Azores Archipelago. Specifically, it is located in the town of Manadas, within the well-known Fajã das Almas, in the municipality of Velas. This location provides it with a landscape setting of unique beauty, characterized by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the peculiar orography of the fajãs, coastal platforms resulting from landslides or lava flows. From its site, it is possible to observe the vastness of the sea and the quietness of the surrounding landscape, often punctuated by cultivated fields and endemic vegetation.

Historical Testimony and Functionality

This stone mill is a silent testimony to the rural history and ingenuity of the inhabitants of São Jorge. Its existence dates back to a period when windmills were essential for the subsistence of communities, playing a vital role in grinding cereals such as wheat and corn. The designation "fixed stone" indicates a robust construction, built to withstand the strong winds characteristic of the region, using local materials, such as volcanic stone, which gives it a natural integration into the landscape. It represents a living memory of agricultural practices and techniques for harnessing natural resources, shaping the daily lives of Azoreans over generations.

Architecture and Landscape Value

From an architectural point of view, the stone Mill in Manadas stands out for its solid and functional structure. Generally built in a cylindrical or frustoconical shape, with thick walls that ensured its stability and durability, the mill was designed to capture the force of the wind and convert it into mechanical energy. Its presence in the landscape is not only functional, but also symbolic, marking the horizon and giving a distinctive character to the Alhadeiras area. The simplicity of its lines and the honesty of the materials used reflect a vernacular architecture in perfect harmony with the natural environment that surrounds it, inviting contemplation of human ingenuity and the intrinsic beauty of the island.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt