Moulins à Vent de Régusse: Sentinels of Provence

Perched on a hill overlooking the charming village of Régusse, the Moulins à Vent (Windmills) stand as proud symbols of Provence's rich agricultural heritage. These two historic windmills, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, offer visitors a glimpse into the past, when wind power was essential for grinding grain and sustaining local communities. One of the windmills has been meticulously restored to its original working condition. Visitors can witness the intricate mechanisms that harness the power of the wind to turn the massive grindstones, producing fresh flour just as it did centuries ago. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to purchase some of the freshly ground flour. The second mill has been transformed into an agricultural ecomuseum, showcasing a collection of traditional farming tools and implements. This provides insight into the methods and tools used by local farmers throughout history. The windmills are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people of Provence, who adapted to the region's strong winds to create a sustainable way of life. The structures themselves are impressive, with their stone towers rising six meters high and their conical roofs and adjustable wings designed to capture the prevailing winds. It took six months to restore one of the mills according to the original plans of Provence mills (1640). Visiting the Moulins à Vent de Régusse is a chance to step back in time and experience the beauty and functionality of these historic landmarks. The surrounding landscape adds to the charm, with views of the rolling hills and forests of the Verdon Natural Regional Park.