Windmills have long been a staple of the Parisian landscape! Long before the creation of grand boulevards and underground metro lines, Paris and its surrounding areas thrived alongside these ingenious machines—crucial for grinding grain, pressing grapes, or pumping water. Today, while many have fallen into ruin, a few remnants of these historic mills still stand, sometimes hidden behind urban facades, sometimes perched atop a hill—silent witnesses to the rural history of Île-de-France.
From the Middle Ages through the 19th century, mills were an essential part of local economies. Windmills, watermills, and later, industrial steam-powered mills each had their own distinct role. The windmill, easily identified by its rotating sails, harnessed wind energy, while the watermill relied on river currents to turn its gears. These structures, often built from stone and topped with a conical roof, are now regarded as part of the architectural heritage of Île-de-France.
Some of these mills are still open to visitors. Others, more delicate or altered over the years, are only revealed along a walk—hidden behind a preserved wall, a truncated tower, or an evocative street name. This very element of discovery is part of what makes this exploration so captivating: hunting for clues, much like a genuine heritage investigation.
This curated selection is regularly refreshed as new discoveries are made and restorations completed. Because heritage is never static: it unveils itself, adapts, and sometimes even renews itself. So, are you ready to travel back in time and chase the winds of history?
Le Moulin de la Galette, Montmartre's historic & artistic guinguette, now a restaurant
In the heart of Montmartre, the Moulin de la Galette was a historic guinguette, which became a mythical venue for Parisian bohemia. Painted by Renoir, frequented by Van Gogh and Toulouse-Lautrec, it survives today as a restaurant, a living vestige of old Paris. [Read more]
The Moulin de la Charité: a historic relic in the heart of the Montparnasse cemetery
In the heart of Paris's Cimetière du Montparnasse lie the remains of the last of the thirty or so mills that once populated the Montrouge plain. Find out more about the Moulin de la Charité, one of the sights to be discovered in Paris's 14th arrondissement. [Read more]
Here is the last windmill in Seine-Saint-Denis... and it's open to visitors!
In Montfermeil, northwest of the capital, the city holds an incredible treasure: the Semplin Mill. Built under Louis XIV, it remains standing today—resisting storms and revolutions, with its stones still original. Reopening is scheduled for early April 2026! [Read more]
What's that strange industrial fortress you see to the east of Paris, near Pantin?
From the Canal de l'Ourcq or the Périphérique ring road, you can see a huge, unusual site on the Pantin side of Paris that looks like a fortified castle. It's the Grands Moulins de Pantin! We'll tell you all about them and their history. [Read more]
Listed as a Historical Monument, this old watermill is among the oldest in the Val-de-Marne region.
In Saint-Maurice, along the banks of the Marne, the Moulin de la Chaussée has stood the test of time. Recognized as a historic monument, this former watermill in Val-de-Marne ranks among the oldest hydraulic relics in the region, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage of Île-de-France. [Read more]
This historic windmill just outside Paris is open to visitors once a month!
Classified as a historic monument, the Moulin à Vent de la Tour awaits you at the gateway to Paris, in the town of Ivry-sur-Seine in the Val-de-Marne region (94). [Read more]
The ruins of the Moulin de Chelles, a curiosity in Seine-et-Marne
Explore the mysterious ruins of the Moulin de Chelles, an industrial relic hidden away on the banks of the Marne. The perfect heritage site for lovers of unusual walks, local history and photography. [Read more]
The Moulin Jaune and its remarkable gardens
Slava the Clown's Yellow Mill is an incredible place to discover. With its remarkable Alice in Wonderland-style garden, it's a unique spot that's a must-see. Please note, however, that it is only open for special events by prior arrangement. [Read more]
Le Domaine de Richebourg: a 17th-century mill transformed into exceptional self-catering cottages with swimming pool in the Paris region of 78.
In the heart of the Yvelines region, Domaine de Richebourg has transformed a 17th-century mill into an exceptional boutique hotel. Its eleven private houses open onto nature, combining modern comforts with old stones, offer an exclusive experience combining history, relaxation and personalized services. A haven where authenticity and refinement invite you to take a break in the countryside. [Read more]
In Essonne, remnants of a mill over 800 years old
In Boussy-Saint-Antoine, in Essonne, the remnants of the Rochopt mill serve as a testament to over 800 years of history. This medieval mill, modest yet vital to the Île-de-France heritage, stands as a quiet witness to centuries gone by. [Read more]
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