Windmill of Lapa

Category: Civil Architecture > Windmill

District: Açores > Vila do Porto > Santo Espírito > Lapa

Classified as Property of Public Interest

Recognized as part of the cultural and historical heritage (Resolution No. 234/96, of October 3rd).

Location

It is located in the town of Vila do Porto, in the municipality of Ilha de Santa Maria, more precisely in the parish of Santo Espírito.

Initial Construction Period

20th century

Description

This windmill has a unique structure with a rotating wooden dome of octagonal shape, composed of a drum and a pyramid. The fixed body has a truncated conical shape, built with plastered and whitewashed stone masonry. On the ground floor, there are two doors and a window. On the upper floor, four windows offer panoramic views. The sails and the "tail" of the mill are no longer present.

State of Conservation

Unfortunately, it is in a poor state of conservation.

Initial Function

This mill was originally used for grinding cereals.

Curiosity

Near this mill, there is another with similar characteristics, but which is now in ruins. There are other mills in the same parish in a similar state.

Access

The Lapa Windmill is located on Caminho do Reque, in Lugar da Lapa, in the parish of Santo Espírito.

Highlight

The mill stands out for its rotating dome structure and the combination of stone and wood in its construction, being a unique example of the traditional architecture of the region.

Note

Unfortunately, the sails and the mill's rotation mechanism no longer exist, but the visit offers a fascinating insight into the agricultural history of the island of Santa Maria.

Sources: https://www.iac-azores.org/iac2018/projetos/IPIA/smaria/vilaporto_fichas/11_81_39.html

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