Exploring Javea with Hamiltons of London – Historic Windmills

A Window into Javea’s Past

For those buying a home in Javea now it is not unusual to explore eco-friendly energy supplies but, several hundred years ago the people of Javea were already harnessing natures power. The windmills were built in the 14th century and were used to grind grain into flour until the 18th century, the coastal winds were the essential power for the process. Prior to more modern machinery being invented windmills like these were used by communities throughout the Mediterranean region and were relied on to sustain their food supply. The plateau known as La Plana provided Javea with the perfect location for their windmills with a constant sea breeze, there is no barrier to prevent the power of the wind, and it was conveniently close to the town. There were eleven windmills standing on this ridge when they were first constructed to take advantage of the force of the Levant and Poniente winds. They were about seven metres tall and six around with conical roofs to support the sails. Internally the millstones turned constantly to grind wheat and other grain to feed generations of families in the area.

Design and Function

The architectural design of the Javea windmills is both practical and resilient. The stone walls are up to a metre wide protecting the inner mechanism from the elements. They were circular to avoid wind resistance, and the high location ensured exposure. Each of the mills had two levels with the lower floor as a storage area and the upper floor housing the machinery. Rather than the ornate windmills found in regions of central Spain like La Mancha the Javea mills were built with a simple design to ensure longevity. Part of their attraction is the raw, rustic nature of their appearance which harmonise well with the surrounding landscape. While the sails and wooden roofs are not longer here the stone towers remain and are very well-preserved and stand as a memory of Javea’s past and the ingenious architects, builders, and engineers of long ago.

La Plana the Perfect Location

Part of the Montgo Natural Park, La Plana is in a protected known for its varied animal and plant life as well as wonderful views of the entire coastline from the Calpe of San Antonio as far as the distant Peñon de Ifach in Calpe. The designers cleverly built the mills here to take advantage of strong cross winds and to allow for easy transportation of flour and grain to and from Javea. The windmills can be reached via the Cabo de San Antonio road and from here there is a scenic walk through with wonderful views of the sea, countryside and town below along the route. 

Restoring and Preserving the Javea Windmills

When modern machinery led to the disuse of the Javea windmills, they were mostly abandoned by the 20th century. Over time the wooden parts of the mills were lost to the weather but, local authorities and heritage groups now recognise their historical value. Several restoration projects have stabilised the remaining towers of the windmills and they are now protected as part of the architectural heritage of Javea and maintenance of the site continues to ensure visitors can explore safely and appreciate these wonderful reminders of the town’s past. There are information signs in the area providing background and sometimes guided tours can be organised. 

Cultural Importance

In additions to their historical and architectural importance the Javea windmills are deeply important to the local community and have a cultural significance for them. They are a representation of self-sufficiency and resourcefulness of their ancestors and are a source of great pride to the residents of Javea. Artists, writers and photographers have been inspired by the timeless presence of the windmills. 

Enjoy a Visit to the Windmills

For those people now buying a home in Javea with Hamiltons of London we encourage you to get to know all areas well and becoming familiar with the history and landmarks can help you begin to feel more at home. Visiting the Javea windmills provides you with a view of the residents who lived in Javea before you but, in addition one of the benefits of moving here is the wonderful walks and views that can be enjoyed. When it is a really clear day Ibiza can be seen in the distance, and you have a bird’s eye view of the town below. There are no entrance fees so this is an excursion that everyone can enjoy, even if they are on a budget. The one provision required is that all visitors do respect both the environment and buildings themselves so that these guardians of the Montgo can remain standing for many more years allowing future generations to admire them too.