Ta’ Kola Windmill: A Glimpse into Gozitan Rural Life
Explore Ta’ Kola Windmill in Gozo: Step back in time and discover the traditional milling process and rural life of 18th-century Malta.
Ta’ Kola Windmill, located in the village of Xagħra on Gozo, is one of the few remaining windmills on the Maltese Islands. Constructed in 1725 during the reign of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena and rebuilt in the 1780s, it offers a glimpse into the island's rural heritage. The windmill's name, Ta' Kola, is derived from Nikola (Kola) Grech, the last miller who operated it. The structure consists of a round central tower surrounded by several rooms. The sails and milling machinery have been meticulously restored, allowing visitors to see how the windmill functioned. The ground floor houses a workshop with a vast array of historic tools, reflecting the miller's role as both grain grinder and artisan. The first floor showcases the recreated living quarters of the miller and his family, complete with traditional furniture, utensils, and Gozitan crafts. When the wind was favorable, the miller would signal the villagers by blowing a triton-shell (bronja) to announce that they could bring their grain to be ground into flour. The site is now a museum under the care of Heritage Malta. Visitors can explore the restored interior, climb the narrow stairs to see the original milling gear, and learn about the ingenuity and resilience of Gozitan villagers in the pre-industrial age.
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ġgantija Temples for a comprehensive exploration of Xagħra's historical sites.
- Be prepared for narrow, winding stairs if you wish to see the milling gear at the top of the windmill.
- Photography is allowed inside the windmill, but flash is prohibited.
A brief summary to Ta’ Kola Windmill
- Il Bambina, Xagħra, XRA 2112, MT
- +35621561071
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, take bus line 307 or 322 towards Xagħra. The bus stop in Xagħra is a short walk to Ta’ Kola Windmill. A single bus ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for two hours, allowing transfers. Buses run approximately every hour.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Bolt) to Ta’ Kola Windmill in Xagħra will take approximately 11 minutes and cost around €10.40 - €15.90. Taxis are readily available at the ferry terminal.
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Walking
From the Xagħra main square, Ta' Kola Windmill is a short walk northwest. Follow signs towards the windmill. The walk is generally easy and takes about 5-10 minutes.
