Aunt Faleira's Windmill

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Açores > Ponta Delgada > Fajã de Cima

Location

The Tia Faleira Windmill stands in the locality of Fajã de Cima, an integral part of the municipality of Ponta Delgada, on the island of São Miguel. It is positioned at a high point in the landscape, a location that allows for observation of the rural surroundings and the tranquility of the area, away from the urban hustle. Its striking presence blends naturally into the surrounding environment, inviting calm observation.

History and Heritage

The history of this mill dates back at least to the mid-19th century, a period when it was in full operation, harnessing the power of the wind to grind cereals. Although the exact date of its construction remains unknown, its longevity attests to the importance of these buildings for Azorean rural life. In the 20th century, the Tia Faleira Mill was in a state of ruin, but it underwent a careful recovery process. It is notable for being one of the few windmills in São Miguel that remains in such good state of preservation, representing a preserved piece of the island's past.

Architecture and Symbolism

The Tia Faleira Windmill features traditional architecture that reflects its original function of grinding cereals. Its cylindrical structure and the engineering of its internal mechanisms, essential for harnessing the force of the wind, are a testament to the intelligence and adaptability of Azorean communities. Its remarkable preservation allows us to imagine its past importance, symbolizing the island's capacity for subsistence and its connection to its natural resources. It is an element that invites contemplation of the heritage and landscape in which it is set, also being a point of interest for those who appreciate rural architecture and local history.

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