Puerto Lajas Mill

Puerto Lajas Mill: Testimony of Fuerteventura’s Milling Heritage

Just 200 meters from the picturesque coastal village of Puerto Lajas, in the municipality of Puerto del Rosario, stands the Molina de Puerto Lajas, an emblematic structure that reflects the rich agricultural tradition of Fuerteventura. This type of mill, known locally as “molina” or “molino de Ortega”, was introduced on the island between the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century, representing an evolution in the milling techniques of the time.

Architectural Features

• Design: The mill has a rectangular plan with a wooden turret supporting four large blades. This configuration allowed a more efficient milling process adapted to the windy conditions of the island.
• Structure: Unlike traditional mills with several floors, the mill integrates the milling and grain handling activities on a single floor, facilitating the miller’s work and optimizing space.

Cultural and Heritage Importance

La Molina de Puerto Lajas has been recognized for its historical and cultural value, having been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) in 1994. This distinction underlines its relevance in the ethnographic heritage of Fuerteventura and its role in the cereal economy that dominated the island for centuries.

Conservation Status and Visits

Thanks to recent restoration efforts, the mill is in an excellent state of preservation, allowing visitors to appreciate its original architecture and operation. Its proximity to Puerto Lajas makes it an ideal stop for those who wish to explore the agricultural history of the region while enjoying the charms of the Majorero coastline.

Recommendations for Visitors

• Access: The mill can be reached on foot from Puerto Lajas, following the road that connects to the Puerto del Rosario power plant. The route is simple and offers panoramic views of the rural and coastal environment.
• Respect for Heritage: As it is a historic structure, visitors are requested to avoid any action that could damage the mill, thus contributing to its preservation for future generations.

La Molina de Puerto Lajas is not only a vestige of Fuerteventura’s agricultural past, but also a symbol of the adaptation and technological evolution of its inhabitants. Your visit offers a unique opportunity to connect with the history and traditions of the island, in an environment that harmoniously combines heritage and nature.