Moulin de Pannevert: A Historic Watermill

Nestled in the Pannevert valley in Rouen, the Moulin de Pannevert is a picturesque watermill with a rich history. The mill's existence has been documented as far back as 1199, when it was known as the Moulin du Val and belonged to the Morin heirs. Throughout the centuries, the mill has seen various owners and uses, from grinding wheat and oak bark to powering textile production.In the 19th century, Ferdinand Legras, a dedicated owner, undertook significant renovations, including replacing the wheel and modifying the tampanne wall. However, by 1878, a dyer had moved in, marking the end of its flour-producing days. In 1952, an antique dealer used it for storage, and later, a private owner hoped to restore it to its former glory.In 1980, the Centre d'Histoire Sociale took on the task of reconstructing the wheel and restoring the interior mechanisms, with financial support from the City of Rouen and the Amis des Monuments Rouennais. The current overshot wheel was installed between 1877 and 1881 and restored in 1985-86. Today, the Association pour la Sauvegarde du Moulin de la Pannevert maintains the site and organizes art exhibitions in the renovated spaces.Visitors can access the mill via the chemin piétonnier (footpath) connecting Place St Hilaire to Darnétal. The site offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past and provides a tranquil escape from the city.