Molino del Batán

The Molino del Batán is a historic watermill located in Almadén, Spain.

History

• The Molino del Batán was constructed in 1840 and has been in operation for over 180 years. It is believed to have been built during the Industrial Revolution, when the demand for grain milling increased significantly.
• The mill was originally used for grain milling, but it also performed other functions such as oil pressing and sawmilling.

Architecture

The Molino del Batán is a breast-shot wheel watermill, with a single horizontal beam that drives the grinding stones. The mill's architecture is typical of 19th-century Spanish mills, featuring a rectangular stone building with a sloping roof. The exterior walls are constructed from local limestone, while the interior features wooden beams and stone floors.

Location

The Molino del Batán is situated on the CM-415 road in Almadén, Spain. The mill is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby Sierra de los Monegros mountains providing a scenic backdrop. The mill's water source is a nearby stream, which powers the mill's wheel.

Current Status

The Molino del Batán is currently a ruin, although it has been partially restored to its original state. The site is no longer used for grain milling or other industrial purposes and serves as a historic landmark.

Heritage Status

The Molino del Batán is listed as a Historic Industrial Heritage Site in Spain, recognizing its importance as a representative of the country's industrial past.

Visiting Information

The Molino del Batán is open to visitors by appointment only. Visitors can arrange a guided tour of the site, which includes information on the mill's history and architecture.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

Unfortunately, no notable historical events or famous millers are recorded for the Molino del Batán.

Technical Details

The Molino del Batán features a single breast-shot wheel with a diameter of approximately 3 meters. The grinding stones are made from local limestone and are still in use today, although the mill is no longer operational.