The mills of the island of Öland
In the summer of 2022, we visited the Swedish island of Öland for a few days. Characteristic of this island are the windmills here.
The Agrarian Landscape of Southern Oland is one of 14 World Heritage Sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List in Sweden and was included on this list in 2000, it is a cultural heritage. The island of Oland is the fourth largest island in the Baltic Sea.
In the mid-1800s there were more than 2,000 mills on Oland; today there are about 400. Almost all of them are standard wooden mills. The whole of the mill is attached to the central heavy wooden beam. This upright heavy beam is held in place by angled struts at the bottom. These struts rest on stones or rocks. In order for the mill to turn, a tail is created; the stairs to the top also sit on this tail beam. Most were used to grind grain.
As a result of the expansion of the arable land to be cultivated and improved prosperity, 2,000 farmers had their own mills. These mills are not real estate; when the owner moved, the mill went with him to his new place.
A "must have" picture for true Swedish lovers that will do well on any wall.
Hope you enjoy it!
With sunny greetings,
Hans Brinkel
Freelance Photographer
I love travelling and taking beautiful photos of special moments. In doing so, I am especially focused on capturing the beauty of the subject. My specialities are, travel, nature, landscapes and macro. I hope you will be satisfied with your purchase and hope to see you.. Read more…