Water mills at Rudăria, Water mill complex in Eftimie Murgu, Romania.
The Water mills at Rudăria are a series of wooden structures positioned along the Rudăria River, each powered by horizontal water wheels for grain processing. The mills remain in working condition and continue to grind flour and other grain products using traditional mechanical systems.
The first mills in this location were recorded in 1722, establishing an early grain processing center for the region. Over subsequent decades, the complex expanded significantly to meet growing demand for milling services from surrounding communities.
Each mill bears a distinct name reflecting its builder, location, or the family that maintained it through generations of local grain processing.
Access to the mills runs along a footpath following the river, offering views of the different structures as you walk. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the terrain can be uneven and becomes slippery after rain.
Small dams were built between the mills to manage water flow and keep them all running despite the river having limited capacity. This simple but clever system from earlier times still works today, allowing multiple mills to operate at the same time.
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