Moulin de la Brée, Windmill ruins in La Brée-les-Bains, France
Moulin de la Brée is a mill ruin with a cylindrical stone tower in La Brée-les-Bains on Oléron Island. The building still contains its original grinding stones and mechanisms that show how grain was once processed.
The structure first appeared on a map in 1686 and ground grain continuously until 1920. After being abandoned, it was later restored by the community and now stands as a reminder of that era.
This mill represents a time when grain production was central to island life and shaped the local landscape. It tells the story of how farmers and millers depended on wind power to complete their daily work.
The site is easy to reach and invites a relaxing walk through the rural surroundings. It is helpful to check local visiting hours before arriving and wear comfortable shoes to explore the area properly.
This structure is one of the few on the island that has kept its original two grinding stones. This rare preservation allows visitors to see directly the technical sophistication of historical mill production.
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