Mykonos Windmills, Mykonos (must see)

The Mykonos Windmills, or Kato Mili, are arguably the most noteworthy and recognizable sight in all of Mykonos. Due to their location and size, the Mykonos Windmills can be seen from every point of the town.

The windmills stand on a hill near Alefkandra Harbor. Most windmills face north, taking advantage of the strong northerly winds. There were once 28 windmills throughout the island. Today, there are 16 in total in Mykonos. Seven windmills stand over the harbor on the landmark hill in Chora.

The traditional Cycladic style windmills are heavy three-story constructions made of stone, with a spherical shape, small windows, and a pointed roof made of the finest wood. They are painted snow-white to blend in with the rest of the island's buildings.

The Venetians began building windmills in the 16th century. Built to mill wheat, they have been an essential source of income for the locals. Construction on the mills continued through the early 20th century.

By the mid-20th century, the use of mills gradually decreased since electricity became a more widespread and reliable way to mill wheat and barley.

Most of the windmills have been renovated to serve new purposes. Some are used as houses, while others function as storage. One of the windmills is now a museum. All of them are important reminders of the past.

Two of the windmills of Mykonos, located near the harbor, can be toured. The Geronymos Mill is the oldest operated since the 1960s. Its original grinding equipment has been restored and is on full display.

The second windmill open to the public is Bonis Mill, and it is part of the Mykonos Agricultural Museum. The mill and the museum are open from 4 PM to 8 PM during the summer. A festival takes place at this mill each September. It celebrates the past with food, drink, music, dancing, and traditional storytelling.