King's Mill, Outskirts, Cross Pond

Category: Civil Architecture > Windmill

District: Açores > Santa Cruz da Graciosa > Dores > Arrabalde

Location

Moinho do Rei is immersed in the serene landscape of Arrabalde, a picturesque corner of Graciosa island. It stands near Charco da Cruz, in the parish and municipality of Santa Cruz da Graciosa, in the heart of the Azores. Its strategic position offers a privileged perspective over the island's natural surroundings, providing a tranquil and inviting atmosphere for contemplating the vast Azorean panorama.

Architectural and Characteristic Traits

This remarkable example of Graciosa's heritage is a traditionally built windmill, set on a solid, fixed stone structure. It is distinguished by its unique features, typical of Graciosa, which set it apart from other Azorean windmills. Its cap and wooden parts feature a distinctive wine-red paint, which harmoniously contrasts with the white plaster of the stone structure. Although it is not currently operational, its interior mechanism remains complete, entirely crafted from wood, testifying to the mastery of past engineering. The windmill's base has a diameter of approximately 6.5 meters, surrounded by a threshing floor that extends for about 12.6 meters, highlighting its imposing presence on the site.

Historical and Heritage Legacy

Recognized for its undeniable heritage and historical value, Moinho do Rei was classified as a Property of Municipal Interest in 1996, underscoring its importance for the preservation of the island's cultural identity. Its name, "Moinho do Rei" (King's Windmill), is a tribute to Manuel S. Bettencourt, affectionately known as "Manuel Rei" (Manuel the King), who was a former and dedicated local miller. This designation not only perpetuates the memory of a central figure in its operation but also evokes the vital importance that these windmills played in the economic and daily life of Graciosa over the centuries. Despite showing natural signs of aging, its presence remains a tangible link to the past, a silent testament to human resilience and ingenuity.

A Privileged Observation Point

Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Moinho do Rei stands out as a location with an excellent viewpoint over the surrounding landscape. This setting offers a breathtaking panoramic view, inviting visitors to appreciate the island's natural beauty, with its rolling hills, scattered houses, and the vast blue of the ocean stretching to the horizon. It is a particularly inviting spot for photography enthusiasts, allowing one to capture the essence of Graciosa, where history and landscape harmoniously intertwine, providing a moment of tranquil contemplation.

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