Mykonos Windmills: A Glimpse into the Past

Mykonos is an island in the Aegean Sea famous for its vibrant nightlife, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages. However, there is another aspect of Mykonos that is equally fascinating, and that is its windmills. These iconic structures dotting the island's landscape are a reminder of the island's past and an essential part of Mykonos's cultural heritage. In this article, we will explore the history and use of Mykonos windmills, their significance to the island and its inhabitants, and how they have been preserved for future generations.

Mykonos Windmills

Μπαούμη, Μύκονος 846 00, Ελλάδα

History & Use - The Story Behind Mykonos Windmills

Most of the windmills in Mykonos were built by the Venetians in the 16th century, although some were constructed up until the early 20th century. They were primarily used to mill wheat and were an essential source of income for the island's inhabitants. Their use gradually declined until they ceased production in the middle of the 20th century.

Windmills were a common sight on most Cycladic islands, including Mykonos, from the 16th until the late 19th century. The gusty winds blowing in the area, especially the northern 'Meltemi,' were harnessed to grind local agricultural yields, mostly wheat and barley. The flour produced by the windmills was then sold to local bakeries, given back to the farmers for their own family use, or transported with ships to other areas around the country or abroad.

The Mykonos Windmills

The Mykonos windmills are conspicuous by their snow-white colour and spherical shape, with the customary pointed roof made of the finest wood. In the good old days, they were wind-operated, as Mykonos is renowned for its strong winds, which continue to blow even today. There were 16 such windmills in operation, and their existence is explained by the high winds in the area. In fact, the surname of Mykonos is the "island of the winds." The windmills of Chora and Ano Mera were a great boon to the people of those localities and were primarily used for grinding the agricultural products meant to be transported to places outside Mykonos.

Preserving the Windmills

With the advent of modernity, windmills are no longer operational, but they continue to be a symbol of Mykonos's past. Counting hundreds of years, most of the windmills have been thoroughly renovated, while some have even been converted into museums, the most famous of which is the Bonis Windmill. Out of 16 preserved and renovated windmills in Mykonos today, 7 are located in Kato Mili, between the harbour of Alefkandra and the neighbourhood of Neochori, southeast of Chora. These windmills, still proudly standing in a row today, have become a landmark not only for the island of Mykonos but for the Cyclades in general, representing the idyllic scenery of the white Greek summer.

Visit the Mykonos Windmills

Visiting the Mykonos Windmills is a must-do activity for any traveller visiting the island. The windmills are located just a 5-minute walk away from Fabrika central bus station and 2 minutes from a parking lot, making it easily accessible for tourists. The best time to visit the windmills is early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too strong and the lighting is perfect for photography. The views of the windmills against the backdrop of the azure-blue Aegean Sea are simply breathtaking.

Walking along the cobbled paths, you can explore the seven windmills located in Kato Mili. Each windmill has a unique history and design; some have been converted into museums. In addition to exploring the windmills, you can also take a leisurely walk around the surrounding area. The quaint streets and whitewashed houses with colourful doors and windows create a picturesque scene typical of Cycladic architecture. At the end of the day, enjoy a refreshing drink or meal at nearby cafes or restaurants. The area is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, a truly magical experience.

Looking for the best things to do in Mykonos? We've got you covered with these three unique activities! 

Start by exploring the island's iconic sights like the windmills, the Armenistis Lighthouse, and Kalafatis Beach on a guided walking tour with a comfortable van pick-up from the cruise ship terminal. Alternatively, discover Mykonos' highlights on foot with a local guide who will take you to Manto Mavrogenous Square, the oldest church of Paraportiani, and the famous windmills of Kato Milli. And for those who want to enjoy both the scenic and culinary delights of Mykonos, we recommend a walking tour with a food-tasting beach picnic where you can stroll through the alleys of Mykonos Town, shop clothes and souvenirs from Greek designers, and indulge in a picnic of artisanal local foods on a secluded beach. Book now and make your Mykonos trip unforgettable!

Visiting the windmills is a must-do activity for any traveller visiting the island and offers a unique insight into the island's past. So, don't forget to add the Mykonos Windmills to your itinerary when planning your next trip to Greece.