Wooden windmill in São Mateus da Calheta, Canada do Pombal.

Category: Civil Architecture > Windmill

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > São Mateus da Calheta > Canada do Pombal

Location

The wooden revolving windmill in São Mateus da Calheta is situated in the serene locality of Canada do Pombal, a picturesque corner of the parish of São Mateus da Calheta. This area, part of the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, is located on Terceira Island in the Azores archipelago. Its position is strategic, benefiting from exposure to the prevailing winds, which gives it a unique natural setting, often accompanied by unobstructed views of the surrounding rural landscape, dotted with green fields, and in some spots, of the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean.

The structure stands in the heart of a predominantly countryside environment, characteristic of Azorean landscapes, where the tranquillity and lush vegetation invite contemplation. The presence of this windmill in this location evokes a deep connection to the land and the natural dynamics that have shaped life on the islands over the centuries.

Architectural and Functional Aspects

This windmill is distinguished by its predominantly wood construction, a material that lends it an organic aesthetic and a harmonious integration with the Azorean landscape. Its particularity lies in its designation as "revolving," indicating that the structure was designed so that its sails could be effectively oriented towards the wind, thus capturing the necessary energy for its operation.

The construction details reflect traditional engineering and adaptation to local conditions, as well as the availability of resources. The wood used in its construction, beyond its structural function, contributes to its aesthetic value, displaying a texture and tone that blend with the natural environment. It is a remarkable example of popular ingenuity in the art of working this material for utilitarian purposes, revealing the creativity and technical mastery of the builders of the time.

A Legacy of Agricultural Activity

The existence of this revolving windmill in São Mateus da Calheta is a silent witness to an era when agriculture was the pillar of subsistence on the islands. These windmills played a vital role in milling grains, such as wheat and corn, which were essential elements in the diet of local communities.

Thus, it represents more than just a mechanical structure; it is a symbol of human effort to harness natural resources for self-production and the economic development of the settlements. Visiting this site provides an opportunity to better understand the life and practices of past generations, who depended on the power of the wind to turn their harvests into food, marking the intrinsic link between human labour and the cycles of nature.

Scenic Value and Landscape Integrity

The wooden revolving windmill, positioned in Canada do Pombal, benefits from a natural setting that enhances its unique beauty. The surrounding Azorean landscape, with its cultivated fields, green pastures, and the visual proximity of the ocean, offers a visually appealing and tranquil scenery. The windmill's very silhouette, with its wooden structure and the promise of its sails, contrasts captivatingly with the blue of the sky and the vibrant green of the land.

This location invites the observation of nature and reflection on the harmony between human constructions and their surrounding environment. The simplicity and sturdiness of the windmill, combined with the grandeur of the Azorean landscape, make it a point of interest that celebrates the union between traditional architecture and the archipelago's natural beauty, inviting an appreciation of a heritage that merges with the island's identity.

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