Guadiana watermils
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Watermill, on the banks of Guadiana river in Mértola, that once shared the site with other similar devices. The dam, that retained water to make them move, still exists and it's followed by a levada (a channel), part excavated on the rock, part sustained by stone walls. The last mill to close, on the right bank, ceased its activity in the mid-40s of the twentieth century.
The Azenhas (watermills) crossed the Middle Ages with successive reconstructions in masonry and support houses on both sides and made part of the Santiago Order assets to be sold later. Two mills and three impeller mills spread over the dam, cutting Guadiana river, for centuries took advantage of the currents to turn the cereals into flour to supply Mértola. After losing its leading role, by giving way to fossil fuel mills are now a recreation place during all seasons in Guadiana Valley Nature Park.
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Watermill, on the banks of Guadiana river in Mértola, that once shared the site with other similar devices. The dam, that retained water to make them move, still exists and it's followed by a levada (a channel), part excavated on the rock, part sustained by stone walls. The last mill to close, on the right bank, ceased its activity in the mid-40s of the twentieth century.
The Azenhas (watermills) crossed the Middle Ages with successive reconstructions in masonry and support houses on both sides and made part of the Santiago Order assets to be sold later. Two mills and three impeller mills spread over the dam, cutting Guadiana river, for centuries took advantage of the currents to turn the cereals into flour to supply Mértola. After losing its leading role, by giving way to fossil fuel mills are now a recreation place during all seasons in Guadiana Valley Nature Park.
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Alentejo
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Mértola
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Vale do Guadiana Nature Park
Identification and Access
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Yes
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Access to Mértola from:
- Lisbon - A2/E1 toCastro Verde. Take exist 12 to IP2, N123 and IC27 to Mértola.
In Mértola, at the roundabout giving access to the bridge crossing the Guadiana towards Serpa, follow the direction Escolas (schools) and follow up up the road (coincides with the end of the urbanized area). Park and then take right to the river.
GPS (watermils): 37.64651944, -7.651841667
Base Characterization
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Cultural Historical
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On the river bank.
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Public
Tips
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If you decide to enter the water pay close attention to river currents, because here they are heavily influenced by tides.
