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Tal-Għaqba Flour Mill
In-Naxxar
The Tal-Għaqba Windmill, located in Naxxar, Malta, stands as a testament to the island’s rich historical and architectural heritage. Constructed in 1710 during the rule of Grand Master Ramon Perellos y Roccaful, this windmill was one of three built by his foundation to enhance grain milling capabilities on the island. Its primary function was to grind grain into flour, a critical process for sustaining the local population during that era. Wikipedia1
Architecturally, the windmill is a two-storey limestone structure featuring a central tower equipped with a circular staircase leading to intermediate wooden floors. This design facilitated efficient grain processing and storage. The construction incorporated various types of wood, including oak, olive, and fir, chosen for their durability and suitability for the mill’s mechanical components. While specific details regarding the construction cost and the artisans involved remain scarce, the windmill’s enduring presence underscores the quality of its craftsmanship.
Over the centuries, the Tal-Għaqba Windmill has played a significant role in the local community, not only as a centre for grain milling but also as a cultural landmark. Its prominence is highlighted by various engravings and carvings found within, including a crucifix and a knight’s ship, which offer insights into the historical and cultural context of the period. Notably, in 1816, the windmill was struck by lightning during the dismantling of its sails, resulting in the tragic deaths of a man and a woman. This event is commemorated by a small crucifix on the building’s facade.
In recent years, the windmill underwent extensive restoration to preserve its structural integrity and historical significance. Initiated by the Naxxar Local Council, the project, costing approximately €1.5 million, was funded through a combination of European funds, contributions from the Planning Authority’s Development Planning Fund, and local government support. The restoration efforts focused on meticulous stonework repair, reconstruction of the wooden machinery, and the installation of the windmill’s sails. These efforts culminated in the windmill becoming the only functional one of its type in Malta, with its vanes turning once again in 2023 after generations of dormancy.
Symbolic Carvings and Their Meanings
Romana Lever: One of the most distinctive features is the Romana, a wooden lever intricately carved in the shape of a clenched fist. This design likely symbolizes strength and resilience, reflecting the labour-intensive nature of milling and the determination of the millers who operated the windmill.
Millstone Engravings: The windmill also contains the largest known millstone on the island, referred to as the Eureka. While specific carvings on this millstone are not detailed in available sources, its prominence underscores the importance of grain milling in Malta’s agrarian society.
Restoration and Discovery
During the extensive restoration process, efforts were made to revive and clean all paint and plaster engravings within the windmill. This meticulous work unveiled a trove of magnificent carvings that had remained concealed for decades, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistic expression of the period.
These carvings not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Tal-Għaqba Windmill but also serve as tangible connections to Malta’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the island’s historical narrative.
Today, the Tal-Għaqba Windmill serves as a cultural centre and museum, hosting exhibitions and community events that celebrate Maltese heritage. The ground floor houses a collection of original windmill artifacts, while the upper floor is dedicated to cultural exhibitions, conferences, and workshops. The surrounding area has been proposed for development into a public garden, further enhancing the site’s accessibility and community value.
Visually, the windmill boasts distinctive features such as its restored wooden mechanism, intricate internal carvings, and the use of traditional materials that reflect the architectural style of the early 18th century. The successful restoration and adaptive reuse of the Tal-Għaqba Windmill underscore its enduring significance as a symbol of Malta’s historical resilience and cultural richness.
The Windmills of Malta
Malta’s windmills are a testament to the islands’ rich agricultural and architectural heritage. Primarily constructed during the rule of the Knights of St. John, these structures played a crucial role in grain milling, essential for bread production. By the 19th century, approximately 31 windmills dotted the Maltese landscape, many of which remained operational into the 20th century .
Here is a list of notable windmills in Malta and Gozo:
- Ta’ Kola Windmill (Xagħra, Gozo)
Built in 1725 by Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena, this well-preserved windmill now operates as a museum, showcasing traditional milling equipment and the miller’s living quarters . - Xarolla Windmill (Żurrieq)
Constructed in the 18th century, Xarolla is the only functioning windmill in Malta today. It has been restored and serves as a cultural center and museum . - Ta’ Ganu Windmill (Birkirkara)
Erected in 1724 by the António Manoel de Vilhena Foundation, this windmill was repurposed over the years, including use as an air raid shelter during WWII. In 1990, artist Gabriel Caruana transformed it into an art studio . - Ta’ Randu Windmill (Qala, Gozo)
Dating back to 1853, Ta’ Randu remained operational until 1977, making it one of the last working windmills in Malta . - Bir Għeliem Windmill (Between Żabbar and Żejtun)
Also known as Ta’ Buleben, this windmill was integrated into a redoubt during the French blockade of 1798–1800, serving both as a mill and a defensive structure . - Ta’ Marżiena Windmill (Between Sannat and Victoria, Gozo)
Built around 1783, this windmill, though no longer operational, remains a picturesque landmark . - T’Għuxa Windmill (Bormla)
Constructed in 1674 near the chapel of San Ġwann t’Għuxa, this mill was active until the 19th century but has since fallen into disrepair . - Il-Qadima Windmill (Mosta)
This red windmill bears the coat of arms of Grand Master Carafa. Although dismantled in the 1920s, its historical significance endures . - Santa Luċija Windmill (Naxxar)
An 18th-century structure now converted into a private residence, retaining many of its original features . - Santa Katerina Windmill (Qrendi)
Built in 1686 following a petition by Mikiel di Giovanni, this windmill served the local community’s milling needs for over a century .
These windmills not only highlight Malta’s historical reliance on wind-powered milling but also reflect the islands’ adaptive reuse of heritage structures in contemporary times.